Identify the type of observation that will be conducted in the study to decide on what type of observational checklist to create. For example, if children in a classroom will be observed, create a behavioral checklist to note how students act during class instruction. Write the purpose of the observation on a sheet of paper.
Make a list of different categories to use on the observation checklist to obtain the necessary data during the observation. Categories can include the characteristics of a person or object, or the time a subject takes to reach point B from point A. For example, if observing an ecosystem, create a "Conditions" category to classify the ecosystem's climate during the observation.
Create a second list of sub-categories to place under each category. For example, when observing an animal, include sub-categories such as the height, color and weight under the category of characteristics. Select sub-categories that aim at obtaining important data about the subject, rather than collecting needless information.
Put the checklist together on a clean sheet of paper. Write the type of observation or project name at the top of the page, as well as the date of the observation. Writing the date the observation took place is important when conducting on ongoing study. Then list each observational category below the project name. Include the sub-categories under the corresponding categories as well.
List different subject names across the top of the page, if observing more than one subject at the same time. An example would be the names of different children in a classroom. Draw vertical lines between each subject name using a ruler, to separate each name on the sheet of paper. Separating each name prevents confusion after the observation is complete.