Exploratory research often brings unexpected results. Even routine experiments can yield strange data. This is normal. You can figure out what went wrong. Always check your lab book for unusual events. Sometimes, the fix is simple: identify the mistake and follow the standard procedure again.

In exploratory research, stay calm when issues arise. Document everything. This includes what happened and the results. You can then analyze the problem. Often, you'll need to adjust your procedure based on what you find.

Struggling with lab books? Check out our free lab book activity! It's common to have difficulties at first. With time, it becomes easier. Everyone, students and professionals alike, needs to learn this. If you're working, your boss might give you time to write. Use it. If not, ask for it.

For identifying problems, a 'root-cause' analysis is useful. Methods include the 5 whys, PEMME, cause and effect analysis, and more. Each experiment may need a different approach.

The 5 Whys

The 5 Whys method is simple. Just keep asking "why" until you find the answer. For example, suppose your PCR test failed to amplify the targeted DNA.

1. Why? Was the DNA concentration was too low.

• But a nanodrop test showed good DNA concentration and quality.

1. Why? Were the primers were non-specific.

• No, sequencing results proved this was not the case.

1. Why? We forgot to add the DNA - the DNA was absent.

• In comparison with a control sample, the target DNA was missing.

Only three questions were needed here. Sometimes, you might need fewer or more than five questions.

PEMME Method

PEMME stands for Personnel, Equipment, Materials, Methods, and Environment. This method involves asking questions about these factors.

First, identify who was involved. Then, check their notes and reports. This helps find protocol deviations and pinpoint errors.

Next, examine the equipment. Ensure it was working and calibrated correctly on test day. Lab records should have this information.

Then, check the materials. Ensure none were expired, contaminated, or depleted. This step rules out potential issues.

If the problem remains unclear, review the methods. Look for flaws. Check if any steps were skipped to save time. Consider if there are better methods that are usually followed.

Finally, assess environmental factors. Even labs can have fluctuations in temperature or humidity. Such changes can affect results. So, these should be monitored.

Is and Is Not Method

This method uses elimination to find the root cause. Create a table to separate factors that could be causes from those that couldn't. Then, review the possible contributors one by one.

Cause and Effect Analysis

This analysis uses a fishbone diagram to find root causes. It involves eliminating options branch by branch until only one remains.

Critical Control Point Methodology

This method involves ongoing testing throughout the process. It helps pinpoint issues early, avoiding end-of-process tests only. Start by identifying critical control points. For examples, for PCR tests, check DNA concentration and validate primers first. Then, set ideal parameters and conduct quality checks. After finding an error, create a corrective action plan and validate new methods. Keep thorough records for future reference.

Students should consider asking their principal investigator to observe the protocol. This way, they can help identify issues.