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Laboratory plays an important role in giving the person a "hands on" opportunity to verify chemical principles and learn important techniques for safe chemical manipulation. In order to get the most out of the laboratory work, simple suggestions have been enlisted below.
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Carefully read the laboratory experiment and any suggested additional reading (s) before coming to lab.
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Do the assigned pre-lab exercises (if any). These generally cover any calculations or important observations which need to be made.
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Make a list of questions regarding the experiment and get it clarified. This can save hours of wasted time in the laboratory.
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All data should be recorded in an appropriately bound log book. Do not use loose sheets or ring binders, as the loose sheets can be easily lost.
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Observations, Color changes, endothermic or exothermic changes, changes in physical state, boiling point, melting point, freezing point, etc are very crucial to record.
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Look at the data, do they look reasonable for the type of experiment and expected results? When in doubt, repeat a portion of the experiment, there is no better lesson than to find your own mistake. If you are still unsure, ask the lab instructor.
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Lab instructor will sometime discuss the important aspects of the lab with students individually or in small groups in an effort to help them get more out of the experiment.
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Lastly, it is important to follow the safety do's and don'ts of the laboratory, not only for your own safety but also for your classmates. Report any dangerous lab practices of others; you will be doing them (and yourself) a big favour.
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