• Read and follow all guidelines. There is no reason to lose points simply because you did not follow instructions.
• Technical papers should be written in passive voice and past tense. There is a distinct difference between a Technical Report and an Essay.
• Ask a teacher to proofread your report. If possible, ask both a Science teacher and an English teacher.
• Guidance on each section of the Technical Paper:
  • Abstract
    • Includes the essential points of the purpose, methods, scope, results, conclusions, and recommendations
    • Short—1 paragraph to about 1 page in length (should be10% or less of the total report)
    • This is your chance to convince the readers that they should continue reading your report.
  • Page of Contents
    • Indicate on which pages the parts of the report can be located in a professional manner
  • Introduction
    • Introduce the problem, your hypothesis, and how you planned to resolve the problem through design while dealing with any restrictions.
  • Design
    • Discuss the experimental process by which you altered your car.
    • Reference the data tables from the appendix to defend the conclusions which cause you to change your design
  • Operations of Mousetrap
    • Please explain the process by which the car is prepared to run. Be explicit about the steps taken.
    • Explain as though someone will follow these instructions to remake your car.
    • List at least the primary materials used and what role they played, if applicable.
  • Conclusion
    • State whether your hypothesis was defended or rejected and why.
    • Discuss the results of your final design and why it is superior to prior methods.
    • Explain how future cars can further be improved and possibly a future hypothesis.