Lab Notebook Policy

Professor Richard DavisChE 3211 Lab I

Introduction The Research/Project/Lab notebook is an

important tool for organizing and preserving: Data Ideas Procedures and Observations

Computer files are easily lost or altered Notebooks are tangible records

Priority in patent proceedings Documentary evidence of good practice in cases

of research integrity, product or professional liability, institutional memory

Required to use in every ChE 3211/4211 Chemical Engineering lab I & II sessions

Notebook Media Requirement Permanently bound (See example)

Do not tear pages out of the notebook. Machine printed page numbers Identify the notebook with your name and

affiliation (e.g., Course Number) Use permanent ink, not pencil Line through errors. Do not obliterate entries. Leave no large blank gaps (“Z-out” unused

blocks) Permanently paste exhibits (graphs, printouts,

etc.). Initial over edge of exhibit.

Daily Record of General Information

Each day in the lab Date Room T Atmospheric P Apparatus configuration

Settings Instrumentation Other observations and notes

Computer files, name, size, location and date

Recording Specific Data All data (small sets) Include units of measurement For large data sets, record sample data –

reference file of complete data set (e.g., Excel file)

Permanently paste condensed version of large data sets or graphs into the notebook.

Initial and date each page Signature of witness needed for patents

SummaryNumber all pages Date all entries

Use ink for all entries Z-out any large areas left blank

Maintain a continuous and contiguous record

Record all pertinent information, data, and observations

Identify all important experimental equipment

Record all general data for every experiment

Record at least a sample of detailed data

Permanently paste exhibits (graphs, computer lists, etc.)

The End The notebook is an important professional

tool

Start today using your notebook Take notes, develop your plan and design

equations in your notebook – bring it with you to your pre-lab design review.

Develop good practice now! It will save you time, headaches, and

embarrassment in the future!