What is an experimental record?

An experimental record is a personal account of everything that happened during any experiment you conduct. In all but the most simple of experiments, there will be lots of activities you perform, equipment you use, observations you make and data you measure. Once you have completed the experiment, you may need to recall these details, possibly to write up your findings for a formal report or to pass the information onto a colleague who is going to start working on the project.

As there is usually far too much information to recall from memory, it is common for experimentalist to adopt a formal process to record all these details while the experiment is occurring. Normally an experimentalist would have a dedicated book for keeping the collection of all their experimental records, called a lab book, and a well organised lab book will ensure that you obtain maximum benefit from any laboratory activity. Experimentalist can end up spending a substantial amount of time with their lab books and consequently forming quite an emotional attachment to them. If you view your lab book as an old friend, you are on your way to becoming an expert experimentalist.