Background Research

• All experiments are based on ideas or questions about the world around us. To start a science fair project, an idea is necessary. Scientists get ideas from what they see. There are so many possible experiments. For example, upon noticing an open dish soap container a scientist might wonder, how long would it take for the soap to evaporate? Or what would happen if that container was left open and unused for six months? Other ideas may come from the garden, pets, food or other common household items. The key is think with a mind that asks questions.
  
  Once ideas are coming, research and read up on all the details.
  
  

Identifying a Question

• The question is based on the observation and research that was done previously. Most questions are based on a comparison (is brand X better than brand Y?) a process (can this change occur in these conditions?) or cause and affect (does A affect B?) Write out the question as clearly as possible.
  
  

Writing a Hypothesis

• The hypothesis is the statement that expresses what the expected result is in this experiment. Generally a hypothesis is written as an 'If...then' statement where the context is if this happens, then this is the predicted result. As an example, consider the question, Does MiracleGro make plants grow faster? The hypothesis may be: If MiracleGro is added to plants, then they would grow faster.
  
  

Preparing for the Experiment

• Explain exactly what was done, step by step.Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
  
  The materials is a list of everything that is needed in the experiment. This list is very important because a true scientific experiment should be able to be copied. So, be very clear in the materials list. If a container is being used, describe what kind of material is it made of.
  
  The procedures are a step-by-step instruction of exactly what to do in the experiment. This must be very clear too, so other scientists can carry out the experiment. The procedures should make clear what is to change in the experiment--the independent variables--and what should be the same--the controlled variables. Procedures should also explain when and how to record data.
  
  

Recording Data and Observations

• The data is recorded based on the instructions in the procedures. Data is often recorded in data tables using numeric values as often as possible. These values should be measured by tools like thermometers, watches or other instruments and not simply a scale of 1 to 10. The observations are more qualitative. In other words, the qualities surrounding the experiment are described. If an experiment is being done with plants, then whether it is cloudy or damp out on a given day is worth noting. That may affect the results.
  
  

Presenting Results

• Present all of the results and the details of the experimental design.Brand X Pictures/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
  
  Results are presented in tables, charts and written form. The written explanation gives a summary of what the charts and tables suggest. The data is being interpreted here so be careful not to add personal ideas to the results.
  
  

Drawing Conclusions

• In the conclusion several pieces of information are added to the report. The conclusion states whether the hypothesis was correct, what the results indicate, what possible errors occurred, how to improve the experiment and what other questions arose as a result of this experiment.