The method section of a research paper provides an overview of how the entire study was conducted. Its purpose is to allow other researchers to replicate the experiment being described and evaluate its validity. As such, it must provide thorough yet concise details on the procedures, materials, and analyses used.
This section typically follows the introduction and comes before the results. It should be written in the past tense and passive voice (e.g. “the experiment was conducted” rather than “we conducted the experiment”). Avoid unnecessary commentary – solely focus on objectively explaining the methods.
Research Design
Depending on the type of study being reported, the method section may begin by stating the overall research design. For example, if it involved an experiment, begin with “A 2×3 between-subjects factorial experiment was conducted.” Or if it was a case study, begin with “A qualitative case study approach was used.”
Next, describe the participants or subjects involved. Provide key demographic details like their number, characteristics (e.g. age range, gender), how they were recruited, and any inclusion/exclusion criteria. State the sample size and power analysis conducted to ensure it was large enough. Identify any special populations studied.
Materials
Thoroughly describe all materials, equipment, questionnaires, surveys, or tests used to collect data. Provide manufacturers and model numbers when relevant. Explain how the materials were developed or validated if they were created specifically for the study. Attach copies of full questionnaires, surveys, checklists, codebooks etc. as appendices.
Procedures
Provide a step-by-step account of the procedures followed in conducting the study. Use subheadings to organize different stages or groups. Explain the experimental manipulations, conditions, or measurements as precisely and chronologically as possible. Include specifics like duration, location, instructions given, order, randomization, counterbalancing etc. Mention procedures for obtaining informed consent and protecting confidentiality/welfare of participants.
Design of Independent and Dependent Variables
If the study involved experimental manipulations of independent variables, describe their operational definitions and how many levels or types each had. Give specific details of each condition or group. Also define all dependent variables measured as outcomes and how they were operationalized or scored.
Data Analysis
Specify the statistical tests or qualitative methods used to analyze the collected data. Provide a rationale for why each analytical approach was appropriate. Identify the statistical software package used. State the significance level and any other parameters of the analyses. Explain how the data was prepared, coded, and screened before analysis. Mention any data exclusions.
Identify whether hypotheses were directional or non-directional. For experiments, state the independent and dependent variables in each hypothesis. For observational studies, write out each research question. Mention all assumptions underlying each statistical test and check that the data met them. Explain how missing or outlier data was handled. Consider attaching statistical analysis output as an appendix.
Validity Considerations
Discuss steps taken to address validity issues like confounding variables, participant expectancies, demand characteristics, placebo effects, experimenter biases, reactivity effects etc. Highlight procedures used to strengthen internal, external, construct, and statistical conclusion validity. Address limitations and threats to validity not fully mitigated. Suggest validity checks that could be implemented in future replications.
This template provides a thorough framework for detailing a research study’s methods section. The level of specificity will vary depending on the complexity and size of the project. Reference any supplemental files and appendices mentioned. Have the methods section peer reviewed for clarity, coherence and comprehensiveness before finalizing the manuscript. A well written methods section allows readers to critically evaluate the validity of a study’s procedures and conclusions.