The abstract normally follows a title page, which lists the report title, lab number, names of lab team members and the date. The abstract is on a separate page and consists of the objectives of the lab, a summary of details and explanation of important findings. A statement of objectives can be used in place of the abstract if the lab report is short and can be read in a small amount of time.
The introduction of the lab report provides readers with an overall view of the issues to be discussed in the body of the report. This section addresses current information as well as background information on the problem topic of the lab. The introduction will also mention brief information about the procedures and overall expected findings and outcomes. A hypothesis is introduced based on the lab report topics with connections to previous research information found.
This section provides details about how the hypothesis was tested during the lab. The information here should be specific, including all equipment and strategies used to conduct the lab. This section of the lab report should also include methods used in the lab, whether survey, observation or other. All information should be presented in an organized and detailed fashion so that other professionals studying within the topic area presented are able to replicate the lab procedures as necessary.
The results section of the lab report details information found during the lab. Types of information delivery methods that can be used to state information found include graph plots, narrative and information formatted within a table. Information presented in table and and chart settings should also be explained within the report to increase the clarification of findings. Any extensive data to be presented can be included at the end of the report in the appendix area.
The conclusion summarizes analysis and comparisons of the hypothesis against lab findings. The conclusion should include any inconsistencies found and any problems encountered in the lab. The reference section follows the conclusion on a separate page and lists any research material referenced or consulted for the lab. Appendices are listed in alphabetical order -- for instance, appendix A followed by appendix B -- and should be referred to within the body of the lab report.