A student is testing how the amount of water affects plant growth. What is the most systematic way to record the data each day?

Write a paragraph at the end of the week describing the plant's general appearance.

Use a data table with columns for the date, amount of water, and plant height.

Take a picture of the plant only on days when it looks like it has grown.

Tell a friend the results so they can remember them.

What is the main reason a scientist uses a data table during an experiment?

To make the experiment finish more quickly.

To organize observations systematically for finding patterns.

To have a place to draw pictures of the equipment.

To ensure the results of the experiment are always correct.

Gathering data only when something interesting happens.

Recording information in a planned, orderly, and consistent manner.

Writing down notes on various scraps of paper.

Collecting as much random information as possible.

The experiment will immediately fail.

Their observations will be more creative.

It will be difficult to compare data from different dates and find patterns.

The scientific equipment will become less accurate.