Report writing

Question 1

Report writing

Answer 1

This is an important part of the research process where investigators present their research, findings and conclusions to be submitted to a journal.

Question 2

Abstract

Answer 2

• Presented at the beginning of a report and summarises the research.

Outlines:

 - aim
 - method
 - participants
 - results 
 - discussion 

• is very useful when deciding if you want to read the entire article.

Question 3

Pilot study

Answer 3

small-scale trial run of a method to identify any practical or ethical problems and resolve them.

Question 4

Introduction

Answer 4

Gives some context about:

- the area of research
- background research. 

• Also explain the rationale for this specific piece of research.
• Finishes with aim and hypothesis.

Question 5

Method

Answer 5

Step by step outline of how the study was carried out.

Includes:

• Participants
• Design
• Apparatus
• Procedure sections

Question 6

Results

Answer 6

• Firstly present the raw data
• give a written summary of this along with descriptive statistics/graphs.
• Outcome of inferential statistical test.

Question 7

Discussion

Answer 7

• States the conclusion and relates this to background research.
• Any criticisms of the study with possible improvements and suggestions for future research.

Question 8

References

Answer 8

• sources of information used such as books or journal articles.

Question 9

Appendices

Answer 9

Includes

• any further information
• analyses useful to the reader e.g.:
  • raw data
  • materials
  • instructions
  • statistical calculations

Question 10

Peer review

Answer 10

Before published, reviewed by others who are experts in the same field as the research completed.

• They review work to ensure it has been carried out appropriately and is of a high quality;
• if it is not then they can reject it and journals will not publish the work to maintain scientific credibility.