Tips for Having a Successful Lab Group

• All members of the group should be actively engaged in all aspects of the lab:

  • preparation

  • lab execution

  • data handling and analysis

  • report writing and editing

  • report submission

• Before leaving the lab, everyone should

  • have a copy of the data

  • have details (id numbers, photos, sketches, etc.) of the apparatus

  • know what the next actions are

• Make the responsibilities of each group member very clear

• Have short, focused meetings:

  • what is the status?

  • what needs to be done?

  • who will do it?

  • when does it need to be done?

• Openly communicate

• Finish the lab report soon enough so that all members can read it over, comment, and edit as needed

• Turn in quality work and submit on time