If this results in blank pages appearing in your notebook, simply draw a single diagonal line across the blank page(s) to avoid additional data entry positioning the start of each experiment on an odd page will make it easier for you to locate experiments at a later date. 2016-2018) will also help you locate your experiments when stored or archived on a shelf.Ī new experiment should start on the right-hand side of the notebook (i.e. Writing the date span on the spine of the notebook (e.g. This unique identifier can also be used to assign a title to spectroscopic data, linked to the respective experiment, e.g. This primarily helps to create a clear identification catalog for each experimental notebook entry and secondly helps to individualize the work conducted by individual members of the team.įor instance, the numerical labeling system shown in the example below, can be interpreted as an experimental study starting on page 35, of lab notebook III, and performed by the scientist with the initials E.O.Įxample numerical labeling system: E.O.III-35 I, II, III, etc.) to the front cover of the lab notebook. It is customary for successive notebooks to be characterized by assigning a number (i.e. Use a simple numerical identification system for experiments These pages should be updated regularly with the title, experiment ID, page and date of each experiment the table of contents will come in handy when you want to find details of past experiments. In order to protect the contents from accidental or chemical damage, ensure the notebook has a robust cover.Ĭommonly, the first two pages of the lab notebook are reserved for the table of contents. The numbered pages make it easier to identify if the pages have been removed or exchanged and helps when referencing the experiments – I will explain this further in the next point. Use a bound (stitched) A4 lined notebook, with consecutively numbered pages. We most probably need some kind of disclaimer, “This guide is designed to provide general guidance to scientists, it is not intended to replace any documents or protocols your lab has in place.” This guide will focus on the “traditional” paper notebooks and will share 8 important fundamentals to help any busy scientist keep an accurate and comprehensive record of their experimental work. Lab notebooks come in various forms, from the “traditional” paper lab notebooks to Electronic Lab Notebooks (ELNs). All of this could potentially cost you precious data, time and money, and might affect the reproducibility of the experiment. Consequently, a poorly-kept lab notebook could lead to the loss of crucial data, unreliable interpretation of the scientific activities, and could even cause problems in getting data published. The lab notebook acts as a primary source to a scientist’s experimental activities and includes details of experimental procedures, observations and interpretations. A lab notebook is an accurate record of your scientific work as well as an essential document to any Good Lab Practice (GLP).
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