Project Log

Use a separate notebook for your project log. If needed, you can use your binder for your Project Log.

The Project Log is like a diary for your entire project. It is divided into three parts.

The first part is titled The Pre-Experiment Log.

  • In this section you record everything you do to prepare for the experiment like research, paperwork, gathering materials, etc.
  • You should keep track of dates, the amount of time you spent on the project, and detailed descriptions of what you did.

The second section is called The Experiment Log.

  • It is a record of any procedure carried out during the experiment.
  • Qualitative data or written descriptions of observations made during the experiment are recorded here.
  • Describe what you observe, especially anything you find to be unusual, unexpected, or not going as planned.
  • Unexpected results and even mistakes, properly recorded, have led to some great discoveries.
  • Keep track of dates and times appropriate to your experiment.
  • Depending upon the length of the experiment, you may use units of time such as minutes, hours, days, or months to identify the exact time a procedure or measurement was made.
  • This section is very important! The experiment log provides some proof that you actually conducted the experiment.

The third section is called The Post-Experiment Log.

  • It is similar to the first section in that you keep track of how much time you spend on the project.
  • In this section you would describe the steps of the project that occur after experimentation, like organizing data, forming conclusions, writing the research report, etc.

This is an incomplete example because it only has 3 entries.

Pre-Experiment Log

Date / Time / Procedures/Observations
12/5/98 / 12:15 pm / Began research at the SMS library. Checked out books on plant growth. Used internet to research plant growth. Left bookmarks on ArcherDaniels Midland Co. website. Worked for 45 minutes.

Experiment Log

Date / Time / Procedures/Observations
12/12/98 / 9:00 am / Began experiment.All plants appear healthy. Recorded heights and counted the leaves of all plants in each group. Some flowers are present on plants in Variable Group #2. Added 25 ml. of water to each plant.

Post-Experiment Log

Date / Time / Procedures/Observations
1/14/99 / 2:15 pm / Worked in SMS computer lab. Used computer to make spreadsheet and graph of recorded data. Worked 30 minutes.