Key Points for Constructing a Results Table

1. Clear, Ruled Structure

• Organized Layout:
  Use clear, ruled lines to separate rows and columns. This structure helps the reader quickly interpret and compare data.
• Borders:
  Draw a border around the table to encapsulate the data and enhance overall clarity.

2. Headings and Units

• Column/Row Headings:
  Clearly label each column or row with the quantity being measured (e.g., “Rennin Concentration (%)” or “Time to Reach End-Point (s)”).
• Units in Headings:
  Always include SI units within the headings to avoid clutter in the data cells and to maintain consistency.

3. Order and Sequence

• Independent Variable First:
  List the independent variable (e.g., rennin concentration) as the first column. Arrange its values in a logical order (typically from lowest to highest) to show progression.
• Dependent Variable Columns:
  Follow with one or more columns for the dependent variable(s) (e.g., multiple readings of the reaction time).

4. Consistency in Decimal Places

• Uniform Decimal Places:
  Record all measurements with the same number of decimal places to reflect the precision of your measurement tools.
• Mean Values:
  When calculating averages from replicates, express the result with the same precision as the individual data points.

5. Handling Anomalous Results

• Identifying Outliers:
  Clearly mark anomalous results (e.g., using bold italics or a specific note) to differentiate them from typical data.
• Excluding Anomalies:
  If an outlier cannot be re-measured, consider excluding it from the mean calculation to prevent skewing the data.
  Example: If one reading at 1.0% concentration is anomalous (e.g., 18.9 s) and the other two readings are 13.1 s and 12.7 s, calculate the mean using only the consistent values:

6. Recording Non-Results

• Documenting No Reaction:
  Clearly indicate when no measurable reaction occurs (e.g., “did not clot”).
• Calculating Rates:
  For derived calculations such as reaction rates (e.g., 1/time), use special notation. For instance, if no reaction occurs (i.e., time is infinite), record the rate as 0 (since 1/∞=0).

7. Example of a Well-Organized Results Table

Below is an example table summarizing data from a rennin experiment:

Note: In the 1.0% concentration row, the anomalous result (18.9 s) is highlighted and excluded from the mean calculation.

8. Summary Tips for Accurate Data Recording

• Document Non-Results:
  Clearly mark instances where the expected reaction does not occur so that derived calculations accurately reflect these cases.
• Design Clear Tables:
  An organized and neat table facilitates easier data interpretation and subsequent graphing or statistical analysis.
• Consistency is Key:
  Maintain uniform decimal places and consistent units across all measurements for clarity and precision.
• Handle Anomalies Carefully:
  Identify and document outliers. If needed, exclude these from statistical analyses to ensure that the overall data remains representative.