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The synthesis laboratory writeup has a specific format that is different than the technique laboratory writeup. Any other format will result in loss of points. Part of the synthesis writeup is called the prelab portion. This is done before the laboratory and handed in as lab begins. Late prelabs will not be accepted. An example of a synthesis lab report is available. The format for the writeup is indicated below in steps 1-9:
1) Title and introduction/purpose
2) Reaction(s)
3) Side reaction(s)
4) Physical constants of reactants, products, solvents, and other chemicals in the reaction(s) and side reaction(s).
5) Theoretical yield and mass/volume calculations
6) Procedure as given in laboratory manual
7) Procedure modifications provided by instructor
8) Data in table form and organized by data type
9) Treatment of data organized by treatment type
1-5) This is the prelab portion. It will be graded on its content and completeness
1-9) This is the laboratory report. Note that it includes the prelab portion
1) The introduction should be short. It is not a procedure
3) Side reactions can be hypothesized
4) Physical constants should be presented in CRC style
5) Often lab instructions give quantities in moles. You must convert these units to mass and/or volume units that can be used in the laboratory. You must show your work.
6) The procedure never includes data.
7) This is a very important step. Your instructor will make modifications before lab and these must be noted in your book.
8) Data is recorded as it is collected. It is categorized by type. It is recorded in tabular form. It is not recorded in sentences.
9) Data treatment varies and often requires additional information from your text or lab text. Be prepared for modifications by your instructor. When asked to explain or give reasons, you must answer in complete sentences. At the very end (i.e. the last page) of the writeup you sign and date the page.
An example of a synthesis lab report is available.