Structuring research reports

A topic in research methodology

There is no simple prescription for writing up research which works for all types of research. However, in the case of an empirical study there is a general logic that suggests a rough template that is often suitable at least in outline. This is explained in more detail in Classroom-based Research and Evidence-based Practice: An introduction, but in summary:

"A key feature of a research report is that it makes its case through a logical chain of argument. As we saw in Part I (e.g., Figure 3.4), the research process has a logic, where decisions are made sequentially, and each stage of the process builds on what has gone before, and prepares for what will come later:

• identify focus;

• conceptualise existing literature;

• develop research questions;

• identify appropriate paradigm for developing knowledge sought;

• identify suitable methodology to answer research questions;

• identify sample, data collection instruments, etc.;

• collect data;

• analyse data;

• formulate findings to answer research questions;

• relate back to initial focus – draw out implications of research.

The research report should reflect this logic, and set out the argument so that the reader can appreciate why key decisions were made, and how the research makes up a coherent study."

Taber, 2013: 321

As

• the purpose is to develop an argument to persuade readers for some new knowledge claims (your findings) [see 'Research writing'], and
• the claims are supported by having worked through this kind of process

writing that reflects this progression can held readers make sense of your work, even if it idealises the often messy process of research. As long as the report is honest (acknowledging and explaining false starts and necessary changes of direction) it still makes sense to focus on the logic of the study as it appears form the endpoint (Medawar, 1963/1990). Although these critical points in the process may have been of fundamental concern and importance to the researcher, they may often in retrospect be seen as footnotes. (Just as an early draft of a famous novel or play with an abandoned plot may be of historical and literary interest – but does not undermine the final version as the canonical work.)

Common report sections

The precise sections included in a research report will vary depending on the length of the report (e.g., a 100 000 word thesis, cf. a short communication to a journal), type of research study, and requirements of the publisher (some journals of funders will specify the headings to be used)

Title

Abstract

Keywords

Introduction

Literature review

Methodology

Research design

Findings / Results (/Presentation of data analysis)

Discussion

Conclusions

References (/Bibliography)

Sometimes it is useful to append supplementary information illustrating material in the main text..

Sources cited:

• Medawar, P. B. (1963/1990). Is the scientific paper a fraud? In P. B. Medawar (Ed.), The Threat and the Glory (pp. 228-233). New York: Harper Collins, 1990. (Reprinted from: The Listener, Volume 70: 12th September, 1963).
• Taber, K. S. (2013). Classroom-based Research and Evidence-based Practice: An introduction (2nd ed.). London: Sage.