Header

Clearly identify yourself and the assignment with a header at the top of each page. In the top border write

• Your name
• The class
• Assignment number
• Due date
• Page/Total number of pages

The following image shows a sample header as it appears at the top of a sheet of engineering paper.

Given

After carefully reading the problem, state briefly what you know. Do not merely repeat the problem statement. Convert the "word problem" form of the assignment to the symbols you will use in the analysis. For example, if the problem statement says "...water flows at 3 GPM through a one inch diameter pipe...", write

Q = 3 GPM, d = 1 inch

as your "given".

Find

Briefly and concisely state the desired result of the analysis.

Schematic

Draw a schematic of the physical system. Indicate relevant inputs, control surfaces, etc., as are relevant in the problem solution. Draw relevant free-body diagrams and force vectors.

It is acceptable to make a photocopy or scan of a schematic from the textbook, but that is not usually sufficient. A useful schematic will also contain additional annotations identifying features of the problem (forces, velocities, etc.) that are necessary for understanding the solution.

Assumptions

List all pertinent simplifying assumptions.

Properties

List property values needed for all subsequent calculations and identify the source (cite Table and page number).

Analysis

The analysis section contains the primary content of the solution.

As necessary, make addition sketches to illustrate key components of the problem. Develop all equations in symbolic form. Substitute numerical values only at the end of the algebraic manipulations. Draw a box around key numerical results. Keep extra digits during intermediate calculations but report results only to the appropriate number of significant digits.

Comments

Discuss the results. This may be a summary of the analysis, an inference of trends, and a critique of the original assumptions used to perform the analysis.