09 Nov Results and Findings
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What happened? The results section is where you report the findings of your study based upon the methodology [or methodologies] you applied to gather information. The results section should state the findings of the research arranged in a logical sequence without bias or interpretation. A section describing results is particularly necessary if your paper includes data generated from your own research.
First, please provide a synopsis of the results by restating the research problem underpinning your study, followed by a systematic description of your results.
Second, present your key findings with clear explanation. Organize your findings under key themes related to addressing the research problem. Use subtitles to highlight the key points.
Third, end with an overall summary, highlighting the most important findings you want readers to remember as they transition into the discussion section.
Please remember, the findings section is for you to present an overview of your data analysis. The interpretation of your data should be in the discussion section. Think of the results section as the place where you report what your study found; think of the discussion section as the place where you interpret your data and answer the "So What?" question.
Avoiding providing data that is not critical to answering the research question.
It is important that the results be presented with an organizational structure that matches the objectives of the research. If data do not fit into the objectives, you need not (or perhaps should not) include them.
Tables and figures
Consider how your findings can be presented visually. But keep in mind that the results should be written out so that the reader does not have to study tables or graphs to get the general picture. The text should include data, but there should typically also be tables and/or figures presenting the data in more. Look through journals to see examples of what goes into tables vs. figures.
This section should be 2-3 pages long.
