5 Ways to Keep Your Lab Notebooks Organized

If you’re looking to enter a growing industry, it’s wise to think about entering the biomedical field. Experts predict that the job growth outlook for the biomedical field is an estimated 23%. If this type of work isn’t quite right for you, consider working in the pharmaceutical industry. Research shows that the United States holds almost 45% of the entire global pharmaceutical market. In addition, job growth for pharmacists is expected to increase by 3% by the year 2024. Before working in either of these industries, you’ll need to complete certain types of schooling. An important aspect of doing well in these courses involves keeping a proper laboratory notebook. Here are five tips for ensuring your lab notebooks remain properly organized.

  • Utilize Structure While Entering Information

    One of the best ways to remain organized is by adding structural elements to each page of your notebook. Many laboratory assignments require the inclusion of background, introductory, and other types of sections. While adding these sections might take a little extra time, it’s beneficial in the long run. In addition, your instructors will likely enjoy seeing that you’re able to prepare such organized findings.
  • Include as Much Detail as Possible

    While working on several assignments, it’s understandable to want to complete them as fast as possible. However, it’s wise to ensure your scientific lab notebook remains detailed. You’ll never know when you might need to look back in your notebook for one small detail. If you’re rushing to complete an assignment, it’s easy for small but beneficial details to be left out. By keeping detailed notes, you can rest assured that everything you’ll need is in your notebook.
  • Leave Out Informal Notes

    It’s sometimes easy for students to forget that scientific lab notebooks aren’t journals. If you have important personal thoughts or ideas that need writing down, use another type of notebook. Scientific lab notebooks are only for matters directly related to your coursework.
  • Always Date Each Page in Your Notebook

    Instructors often recommend that students keep their notebooks organized. One of the best ways to ensure that you achieve this goal is by dating each page of your notebook. Certain instructors will require their students to place these dates in the top corner of their notebooks. By dating each page, you’ll have an easier way to recall information from the past. In turn, you’ll likely save time by not having to skim back through each page of your notebook.
  • Consider Asking Instructors for Feedback

    Certain instructors will grade students based on their scientific lab notebooks. With that in mind, instructors might set aside time each week to speak with students. During these times, it’s a good idea to ask if instructors will provide feedback regarding your notebook preparation skills. The feedback you receive can drastically help improve how you take notes.

In conclusion, it’s important to understand how to properly organize your scientific lab notebooks. Following the previously mentioned tips will help you throughout your courses. In turn, completing these courses moves you that much closer to being able to enter a wide range of scientific industries. If you want to avoid rushing around before your classes start, consider ordering your notebooks and other supplies online. In turn, you’ll be able to focus on other matters while your notebooks ship directly to your home.

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