Should the discussion section of a lab report begin with a broad statement of general principles, and then slowly focus in on your specific results?

Yes, it is generally recommended to begin the discussion section of a lab report with a broad statement of general principles before focusing on specific results. This approach helps provide context and background information for the reader. By starting with general principles, you can establish a foundation and explain the scientific principles or theories relevant to your experiment.

After establishing the general principles, you can then gradually transition to discussing your specific results. This allows you to showcase how your findings align with or contradict existing knowledge or theories. It also provides an opportunity to explain the significance of your results and their implications in the broader scientific context.

By structuring your discussion section in this way, you create a logical flow of information, leading the reader from general principles to specific results and their interpretation.