Carry out the Investigation and Record Results

Carry out the Investigation and Record Results

Carrying out the Investigation

Preparations before the Investigation

  • Wear appropriate safety gear such as lab coat, safety glasses, and gloves to all experimental segments.

  • Ensure that all necessary equipment is gathered and in working condition.

  • Affirm that all tools and surfaces are clean to circumvent cross-contamination which could affect the validity of results.

Carrying out the Procedure

  • Rigorously follow the method described in your plan. Particular attention is paid to manipulating the independent variable and measuring the dependent variable.

  • Be meticulous about maintaining control variables to ensure a fair test and valid results.

  • Endeavour to keep the experiment as precise and accurate as possible by reducing random and systematic errors.

  • If anything goes unpredicted or amiss, note this down in an observation log as it may impact your conclusion.

Recording the Results

Recording Observations

  • Organise data in a table with columns for the independent and dependent variables, and possibly, other useful recorded variables.

  • Record accurate and precise observations, avoiding any personal bias. Measurements should be made as precise as possible with the equipment available.

  • Make a note of both qualitative and quantitative data. Descriptions of changes are as important as numerical data in some experiments.

  • Consider repeating the experiment to collect multiple data sets for reliability.

Reviewing Results

  • Regularly check results for anomalies or outliers that may affect your analysis or conclusion.

  • Check the consistency of results among repetitions. Any substantial variation should be noted and investigated.

  • Always consider whether the collected data supports the hypothesis. If it does or does not, make a note for your conclusion.