How to write an IB Biology Lab - Data Analysis, by Alex Lee on YouTube. 7 min 36 s.
- Video length
- 7 min 36 s
- Time to do it
- 45 minutes
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Put your raw data in a table with clear column headings, units and the uncertainty of each measurement. Include repeat trials, a mean column and any qualitative notes you recorded.
Show how you processed the data. Write the formula, give one worked example with numbers, then fill in the rest. Typical processing includes means, rates, percentages and standard deviation.
State the uncertainty for each processed value. Add or combine uncertainties as your method requires, and keep the same number of decimal places across a column.
Build a second table for processed data only. Label every column with quantity, unit and uncertainty so a reader can understand it without the raw table.
Choose the graph that fits your data: bar chart for categories, line or scatter graph for continuous variables. Put the independent variable on the x axis and the dependent variable on the y axis.
Label both axes with quantity and unit, add a clear title, and use a consistent scale. Plot individual points or means, and add error bars to show variation.
If you are comparing groups, name the statistical test, state the null hypothesis, and report the test value, degrees of freedom and probability. Say whether the result is significant.
Describe the pattern in words and point to the graph or table. Mention outliers, sample size and sources of error, but save your final conclusion for the conclusion section.
Tips and common mistakes
Keep units and significant figures consistent in every table and graph.
Write the plus or minus sign before every uncertainty value so the meaning is clear.
Do not explain what the data means biologically in this section; describe and process it.
Check that each graph can be read on its own with no reference to the text.
Questions
How long should the data analysis section be?
There is no fixed length. Aim for enough detail that another student could repeat your processing, usually one or two pages with tables and graphs.
Do I need error bars on every graph?
Add them whenever you have repeats or a stated uncertainty. They show the spread of your data and help the reader judge the trend.
Which statistical test should I use?
Use a t test to compare two means, a chi squared test for counts in categories, and correlation for two continuous variables. Match the test to your research question.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
