1. Systematic Errors

Systematic errors cause a consistent bias in all measurements.

Key features

Common systematic errors

Source	Error Type	Explanation	Fix / Reduce by…
Instrumental	Zero error	Instrument does not read zero, shifting all values.	Zero or tare the instrument before use.
Instrumental	Calibration error	Scale or sensor is incorrectly calibrated.	Verify against a known standard; recalibrate or replace.
Observational	Parallax error	Scale consistently viewed from an incorrect angle.	Read at eye level; use a mirror scale to confirm alignment.
Method	Method limitation	Experimental design introduces inherent bias.	Identify the design flaw and redesign the method.
Environmental	Constant temperature / lighting bias	Conditions consistently differ from intended controls.	Control or correct the environmental condition before data collection.

Fill in the Gaps — Systematic Errors

Complete the following by filling in the missing words.

Word list (A → Z): calibrated • controlled • read • redesigned • zeroed

Instruments should be ______________ before use to remove any zero error.
Measuring devices must be ______________ against a known standard to ensure accuracy.
Scales should be ______________ at eye level to avoid parallax error.
Environmental conditions should be ______________ to prevent systematic bias.
If the method introduces bias, the experiment should be ______________.