Reporting Psychological Investigations

Question 1

Abstract

Answer 1

A summary of the study.

A short summary of the study that includes all the major elements:
the aims and hypotheses, method/procedure, results and conclusions

Question 2

Introduction

Answer 2

A look at relevant theories, concepts and studies that are related to the current study

Question 3

Method (describe all the parts)

Answer 3

The method should include sufficient detail so that other researchers are able to replicate the study:

• design and reasons/justification given for the choice
• sample- how many participants, biographical/demographical information, the sampling method and target population
• apparatus/materials- details of any assessment instruments uses and other relevant materials
• procedure- everything said and used. ie the briefing, standardised instructions and debriefing
• ethics- how these were addressed within the study

Question 4

Results

Answer 4

A summary of the key findings from the investigation:

• descriptive statistics (eg tables and graphs
• inferential statistics including reference to the choice of stats test etc
• any raw data collected and calculations appear in appendix

Question 5

Discussion

Answer 5

• summary of findings in verbal rather than statistical form
• relationship of the results to previous research
• consideration of the limitations of the study and suggestions of these being addressed
• wider real world implications of the research are considered

Question 6

Referencing

Answer 6

Referencing may include journals, articles, books, websites etc