For all data entry activities, it’s important to follow the rules for data entry, but especially when using lab notebooks / logbooks.
Ground Rules
We’ll cover some exceptional and anomalous conditions later but in general:
- Each entry should be attributable to the individual making the entry. If this is a lab notebook assigned to an individual it should be obvious; if a logbook where entries are being made by multiple individuals, means should be taken to clarify the person making the entry (e.g., initials / date).
- Each entry should be complete. That sounds obvious but it’s easy to walk away with an unfinished thought at the end of the day (or when someone calls you out for lunch or coffee or…) and then forget to finish it when you return (or forget even what you were entering at the time!).
- Each entry should be legible. Another one that may seem obvious but with handwriting like mine, it’s a challenge (see ‘Review’ section below).
- If calculations are made, the calculation should be worked out and the formula should be shown.
- When appropriate, test equipment should be recorded. Further, when using measurement equipment, the equipment should be calibrated and calibration information should be cited.
- If an experiment goes awry or if a test fails, it’s extremely important to also record this information. If the failure is explicable, explain it.
- Finally, follow the standard GDocP rules (proper corrections, no white-out / obliteration, etc.).
