The methods section of a research paper provides an overview of how the research for the project was conducted. It allows the reader to understand how the data was collected and analyzed so they can evaluate the validity and reliability of the results. The methods section is generally placed after the introduction section and before the results section.
The methods section should provide enough detail that another researcher could replicate the study. It should contain information about the following:
Research Design
The methods section should begin with a statement identifying the overall research design used in the study such as whether it used an experimental, quasi-experimental, or non-experimental research design. Experimental designs allow researchers to test hypotheses by directly manipulating variables. Quasi-experimental designs cannot directly manipulate variables but can compare groups. Non-experimental designs do not involve manipulation or groups and are used to explore relationships.
Participants
Provide details about the participants in the study such as how many participated total, basic demographic information such as their age range and gender, and how they were selected or recruited. If participants belonged to specific groups, describe how groups were formed. For example, if comparing students in an experimental and control group, describe how participants were assigned or selected for each group.
Materials/Instrumentation
Identify and describe in detail any materials, instruments, tools, surveys, questionnaires, tests, or measures used to collect data. Provide information on their design, format, readability, validity and reliability. If instruments were modified for the study or items were added or removed, describe those changes. Include copies of surveys or other materials as appendices.
Procedures
Provide a step-by-step description of the procedures used to collect and analyze data. Describe the process in chronological order from start to finish so someone could replicate it. Include information such as how participants were introduced to the study, where and when data was collected, what instructions participants received, the independent and dependent variables that were manipulated or measured, how long the study took to complete, and the method of analysis.
Results
Do not include any results in the methods section as it describes only how the study was performed. Save results for the subsequent results section.
The methods section may also include information on:
Research Setting
If relevant, describe where the research took place such as a lab, classroom, or field location and note any important aspects of the setting related to the study.
Research Ethics
Note whether approval was obtained from an institutional review board and any steps taken to ensure the ethical treatment of human participants such as maintaining confidentiality or obtaining informed consent.
Pilot Testing
If preliminary piloting of procedures or instruments was conducted, briefly describe the pilot testing methods and note any modifications made based on pilot results.
Data Analysis
Provide details on the specific statistical or qualitative techniques used to analyze collected data such as the use of correlations, t-tests, ANOVA, chi-square, content analysis, or phenomenological analysis. Note the level of significance and any software package used.
Limitations
Briefly acknowledge any notable limitations in the study design or methodology that could impact interpretation of results. A full discussion of limitations is typically reserved for the discussion section.
Using this outline can help write a thorough yet concise methods section that allows readers to understand precisely how a study was performed and lay the foundation for properly interpreting the subsequent results. Well written methods sections provide transparency to build the research’s credibility and ability to be replicated or extended.