Data Analysis In A Research Paper – 7 Rules To Be Aware Of
The data analysis of a research paper is essentially a summary of two of the document’s most important parts – the experimental studies and the quantitative studies. Despite the straightforward nature of this section, there are still some rules you should be aware of when writing your data analysis. Here’s what you need to know:
Rule #1: Define the Tests Conducted
The first thing you need to do in this section is define the tests you conducted to do your study. This should be expressed clearly in simple language so that anybody wishing to replicate the study can do so by simply following your instructions.
Rule #2: Define the Study’s Sample Set
Your data analysis should define the sample set you used for your study and the reasons you decided on the specific set. You should also go on to describe the study’s objective and why your specific sample set was necessary in achieving results.
Rule #3: Include Relevant Information
Including charts or graphs are a great way of communicating complex information in ways that can easily be understood by others. Consider creating a variety of charts or graphs and selecting the one that can be deciphered most easily by a general reader.
Rule #4: Draw Your Conclusions
This is the part of the data analysis where you state your conclusions or comparisons. You should explain what the results mean, how significant they are to your topic and whether or not they contradict or support previously known information.
Rule #5: Double Check Your Findings
After you’ve drawn some conclusions and connections you should double check your findings. If you have included any charts or graphs you need to ensure the data is presented correctly. It might help to have another person review this content and have that person explain the information back to you.
Rule #6: List all of Your Resources
If you had to consult outside resources in your collection process you need to state this within the analysis and then provide a list of those resources at the end of the section. This is extremely important so that other academics can easily find the information if they wish to arrive at the same conclusion.
Rule #7: Always Proofread and Edit
You probably don’t have to be reminded about this last rule but it’s extremely important that you completely proofread and edit every section of your research paper. Your writing should be clear and direct – use simple language when expressing your ideas. Also check for common errors in grammar, punctuation and spelling as mistakes can cost you a letter grade.