What Is an Analysis of a Science Project?

Analysis is the step of the scientific method where data is interpreted. During analysis, scientists evaluate if they have enough data to continue to interpretation. They review and make sense of the data collected during the experiment.

Calculations

Calculations are needed to develop conclusions in an experiment. Calculations such as finding the velocity, force, number of moles, energy or voltage allow scientists to organize the data in helpful terms.

Summarize

Experiments are often done a few times to make sure that the data collected is consistent. Scientists may summarize this data using averages, ratios and percent error after the experiment is completed.

Units

During analysis, scientists make sure all the units are on the same scale. For example, if measuring a volume, scientists may have to convert all volumes to ml. Furthermore, all units should be listed during data collection and analysis.

Graph

Graphs are often used to interpret the data. In a line graph, the independent variable is placed on the x-axis and the dependent variable is placed on the y-axis. Bar graphs maybe used to compare results from one trial to another.

Tools

Microsoft Excel or other spreadsheet programs may be used to perform the calculations and create the graphs. Spreadsheets keep data well organized and create graphs quickly and easily.

References

• Data Analysis
• Using Scientific Method