Lab report figure caption checklist
A caption should let a reader identify what was measured and under which conditions without inventing interpretation not shown by the figure.
Identify the figure
Begin with the figure number and a concise description of the displayed relationship or comparison.
State conditions and samples
Include treatments, temperatures, time points, sample groups, and n when they are necessary to interpret the plot.
Define symbols and variability
Name units and define error bars, lines, markers, and abbreviations. Do not assume SD and SEM are interchangeable.
Separate observation from claim
A caption may describe what is plotted; causal or mechanistic interpretation belongs where evidence can be discussed and bounded.
Sources and boundaries
Solice develops LabCrux. The independent sources above do not sponsor or endorse the product. This page explains a review method; your experimental evidence, course instructions, and instructor remain authoritative.