Report Writing in Research Methodology
A report is a well-written formal document that briefly describes the process and findings of a research. It outlines the systematic investigation, recommendations, and gaps that need further inquiry. A well-crafted research report tells you about all the main areas of a research process. In this article, we will talk about how to write a report in research methodology.
Importance of a report in research methodology
Below are some points that make the report crucial in research methodology:
- Knowledge transfer
A report contributes to the existing knowledge. Through this report, we can communicate effectively with the findings of the investigation.
- Identification of knowledge gaps
A research report identifies knowledge gaps that can be investigated further. The report shows what and how much has been done.
- presents information precisely
A research report makes you able to show research information in a concise and precise manner.
- Time-efficient
A report is a time-efficient document because you don’t have to spend much time detailing the findings. Rather, it is written briefly and you can send it through email to the concerned people.
Structure of a report in research methodology
You can write the report in the following structure:
- Title
The title of your research should point to the objectives, aims, and findings of your systematic investigation.
- Table of contents
The table of contents will make the readers able to navigate your research report.
- Abstract
In the abstract section, the reader can have an overview of the important aspects of research such as method, data collection, and findings. While writing the abstract you should follow the format of 5ws and 1H; what, where, when, who, why, and how.
- Introduction
You can write aims and the problems that become the cause of your research. You should also indicate whether you have achieved your objectives of the research or it requires further work.
- Literature review
In a literature review, you will write a survey that highlights existing knowledge about the research topic. In the literature review, you can present the research hypothesis and its implications.
- Investigation
In this portion of the investigation, write in-depth information briefly about the research process that includes methodology, data collection, sample, research subjects, and analysis.
- Findings
In this portion, you are expected to show the results and findings of your systematic investigation.
- Discussion
Now, you will further explain the results of the research that you outlined earlier. Justify for each finding and show whether the outcomes are according to the hypothesis or not.
- Conclusion
Finally, you will write a summary of your research in which you will talk about the whole report of research methodology.
- Reference and appendices
In this section, mention all the primary and secondary sources used during research.
Tips for writing a report in research methodology
Before writing a report in research methodology, you must create an outline of its core areas and then write its detail concisely. Below are some tips you can follow while writing a report:
- Define your audience
Always keep your audience in mind so that you can determine the tone while writing the report. If the report is for a general audience, you can present information in a simple way. While if you are writing for a particular audience, you can use field-specific or technical terms as well.
- Include significant findings
In report writing, exclude all irrelevant information and only highlight important findings and data. Just present the abridged version of the systematic investigation.
- Include illustrations
You can use illustrations and visual presentations to make your data more efficient. You can use charts, graphs, and relevant images to bring additional credibility to systematic investigation.
- Choose the right title
The title of the report should be clear and precise. It must contain keywords of your research. The title should show a clear idea of the investigation so the readers can easily grasp the focus of the research.
- Proofread the report
After completion of report writing, you must proofread and edit it wherever it needs before you publish the report. The second look will make the information valid and authentic. You can ask someone to go through your report or use any editing and proofreading software as well.
Conclusion
A report is a concise document that is the essence of research. So, you should be very careful while writing a report after conducting research. It should be accurate, clear, and concise. Its findings can communicate with the readers.