All learning depends upon curiosity, especially more so in Science. Any new knowledge acquired by any individual spontaneously generates more questions. Most of these questions are “what if …?” This, in turn stimulates one to experiment. Since learning of science and advancements in science are based on the continuing enquiry and, therefore, experiments, students of science need to be trained, not only in the basics of principles in different disciplines but also in methods of scientific studies.

This involves learning the basic experimental methodology in laboratory to get trained to conduct experiments and interpret the results. Learning the laboratory methods and techniques thus is an integral part of training of students of science at every level. Unfortunately, this basic component of learning and practicing science in the country has become progressively weaker in recent times, partly because the facilities and resources in academic institutions did not keep pace with the increasing number of students and partly because the teachers and administrators also opted for easier alternatives. Obviously the graduates coming out of such training remain ill-prepared for more advanced scientific studies and research.

I am sure this manual would be widely used to further catalyze the spirit of enquiry and experimentation in learners.