Research Methodology Notes

Units 1 to 4: Detailed Answers for 5-Mark Questions

Prepared for Academic Study

June 9, 2025
Contents

1 Unit 1: Research Formulation and Design 3

1.1 Differentiate between Research Methods and Research Methodology . . . 3
1.2 What are the different types of research? Explain with examples . . . . . 3
1.3 Define and explain the characteristics of a good research problem . . . . 4
1.4 Explain the importance of literature review in research . . . . . . . . . . 4
1.5 Differentiate between Qualitative and Quantitative research . . . . . . . 4
1.6 What is a working hypothesis? How is it developed? . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.7 Compare Basic and Applied research with examples . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.8 What are primary and secondary sources of literature review? . . . . . . 6
1.9 Explain the criteria for a good research design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.10 What is a research gap? How is it identified? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

2 Unit 2: Data Collection and Analysis 7

2.1 What are the different methods of data collection? Explain . . . . . . . . 7
2.2 Define sampling. What are its different types with examples? . . . . . . . 7
2.3 Differentiate between primary and secondary data . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.4 What are the steps in data processing and cleaning? . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.5 Explain the concept of method validation with an example . . . . . . . . 8
2.6 What is SPSS? Explain its uses in data analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.7 What is a t-test? When and how is it used? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.8 What is ANOVA? How is it different from a t-test? . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.9 Explain the role of statistical packages in research . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.10 Define Hypothesis Testing and mention its steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

3 Unit 3: Research Ethics, IPR, and Scholarly Publishing 10

3.1 What are the ethical issues in research? Explain with examples . . . . . 10
3.2 What is plagiarism? How can it be avoided in research? . . . . . . . . . . 11
3.3 What is IMRAD structure in research publishing? . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
3.4 What are Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)? Explain types . . . . . . . 12
3.5 Write short notes on patent and copyright . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
3.6 Explain the function of ethical committees in human/animal research . . 12
3.7 What is commercialization in research? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3.8 What is TRIPS agreement? Why is it important? . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3.9 Explain the importance of citation and referencing . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3.10 Define reproducibility and accountability in research . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

4 Unit 4: Interpretation and Report Writing 14

4.1 What is interpretation in research? What are its techniques? . . . . . . . 14
4.2 What precautions should be taken during interpretation of results? . . . 14
4.3 List and explain the steps in writing a research report . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.4 Differentiate between project report and research report . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.5 Explain the importance of report writing in research . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.6 What is the standard layout of a research report? . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
4.7 Write short notes on oral presentation of research . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
4.8 What are different types of research reports? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
4.9 Explain the mechanics of writing a research report . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

1
4.10 What are common precautions for writing research reports? . . . . . . . 17

2
1 Unit 1: Research Formulation and Design
1.1 Differentiate between Research Methods and Research Method-
ology
Research Methods are the specific techniques and tools used to collect and analyze
data, while Research Methodology is the broader framework or strategy that guides
the entire research process.
Key Differences:

• Scope: Methods are specific (e.g., surveys, experiments), while methodology covers
the overall approach (e.g., qualitative or quantitative framework).

• Purpose: Methods focus on data collection and analysis; methodology justifies

why those methods are chosen.

• Example: Using a survey (method) within a quantitative methodology to study

consumer behavior.

Highlight: Methodology provides the theoretical foundation, while methods are practical tools.

1.2 What are the different types of research? Explain with

examples
Research can be classified into several types based on purpose, approach, and nature.
Types of Research:

• Descriptive Research: Describes characteristics of a phenomenon. Example: A

survey to describe the demographics of a city.

• Analytical Research: Analyzes relationships or causes. Example: Studying the

impact of social media on mental health.

• Applied Research: Solves practical problems. Example: Developing a new vac-

cine for a disease.

• Fundamental Research: Expands theoretical knowledge. Example: Research on

quantum physics principles.

• Quantitative Research: Uses numerical data. Example: Measuring test scores

to evaluate teaching methods.

• Qualitative Research: Explores non-numerical data. Example: Interviewing

people about their cultural beliefs.

Highlight: Each type serves a unique purpose in advancing knowledge or solving problems.

3
1.3 Define and explain the characteristics of a good research
problem
A research problem is a specific issue or gap that a study aims to address.
Characteristics:

• Clarity: The problem must be clearly defined. Example: "What factors influence
student dropout rates?" is clear.

• Significance: It should address an important issue. Example: Studying climate

change impacts on agriculture.

• Feasibility: Must be researchable with available resources. Example: Avoid overly

broad topics like "global happiness."

• Novelty: Should contribute new insights. Example: Exploring a new technologys

impact on education.

• Relevance: Must align with the researchers field. Example: A medical researcher
studying disease patterns.

Highlight: A good research problem drives meaningful and feasible research.

1.4 Explain the importance of literature review in research

A literature review surveys existing studies to contextualize research.
Importance:

• Identifies Gaps: Highlights areas needing further study. Example: Finding lim-
ited research on AI ethics.

• Provides Context: Builds on prior knowledge. Example: Reviewing past studies

on renewable energy.

• Avoids Duplication: Ensures originality. Example: Confirming no identical study

exists.

• Guides Methodology: Informs appropriate methods. Example: Adopting a sur-

vey method from prior work.

• Supports Hypotheses: Provides theoretical grounding. Example: Using past

findings to hypothesize outcomes.

Highlight: Literature review is the foundation for a well-informed study.

1.5 Differentiate between Qualitative and Quantitative research

Qualitative Research explores non-numerical data to understand phenomena, while
Quantitative Research uses numerical data to test hypotheses.
Key Differences:

• Data Type: Qualitative uses words, images (e.g., interviews); Quantitative uses
numbers (e.g., surveys with scores).

4
 • Objective: Qualitative seeks depth (e.g., understanding cultural beliefs); Quanti-
tative seeks measurement (e.g., measuring test scores).
• Analysis: Qualitative uses thematic analysis; Quantitative uses statistical meth-
ods.
• Sample Size: Qualitative often uses smaller samples; Quantitative uses larger
samples.
• Example: Qualitative: Studying patient experiences via interviews; Quantitative:
Measuring blood pressure in a drug trial.
Highlight: Both approaches complement each other in mixed-method studies.

1.6 What is a working hypothesis? How is it developed?

A working hypothesis is a tentative statement predicting a relationship between vari-
ables, guiding research.
Development Process:
• Literature Review: Identify patterns in existing studies. Example: Studies show
social media increases anxiety.
• Define Variables: Specify independent and dependent variables. Example: Social
media use (independent), anxiety levels (dependent).
• Formulate Statement: Create a testable hypothesis. Example: "Increased social
media use raises anxiety levels."
• Ensure Testability: Hypothesis must be measurable. Example: Use surveys to
measure anxiety.
• Refine Based on Scope: Adjust for feasibility. Example: Focus on a specific age
group.
Highlight: A working hypothesis provides direction for data collection and analysis.

1.7 Compare Basic and Applied research with examples

Basic Research seeks theoretical knowledge, while Applied Research solves practical
problems.
Comparison:
• Purpose: Basic aims to understand phenomena (e.g., studying gravitys principles);
Applied addresses real-world issues (e.g., designing a bridge).
• Outcome: Basic yields theories (e.g., theory of relativity); Applied yields solutions
(e.g., a new medical device).
• Scope: Basic is broad and exploratory; Applied is specific and goal-oriented.
• Timeframe: Basic may take years; Applied often has shorter timelines.
• Example: Basic: Researching DNA structure; Applied: Developing a genetic test
for diseases.
Highlight: Basic research lays the groundwork for applied research.

5
1.8 What are primary and secondary sources of literature re-
view?
Primary Sources are original materials, while Secondary Sources interpret or analyze
primary sources.
Differences:

• Nature: Primary: Raw data (e.g., survey results); Secondary: Summaries (e.g.,
review articles).

• Source: Primary: Direct from the researcher (e.g., interviews); Secondary: Com-
piled by others (e.g., textbooks).

• Use: Primary provides firsthand evidence; Secondary provides context.

• Example: Primary: A scientists lab notes; Secondary: A journal article summa-

rizing those notes.

• Reliability: Primary is more authentic but harder to access; Secondary is more

accessible but may be biased.

Highlight: Both sources are crucial for a comprehensive literature review.

1.9 Explain the criteria for a good research design

A research design is a plan for conducting a study.
Criteria:

• Clarity: Objectives and methods must be clear. Example: Specify survey ques-
tions.

• Feasibility: Must be practical with available resources. Example: Ensure access

to participants.

• Reliability: Should yield consistent results. Example: Use standardized tools.

• Validity: Must measure what it intends to. Example: Use appropriate scales for
variables.

• Efficiency: Minimize errors and bias. Example: Random sampling to avoid bias.

Highlight: A good design ensures reliable and valid research outcomes.

1.10 What is a research gap? How is it identified?

A research gap is an unexplored or underexplored area in existing literature.
Identification Process:

• Literature Review: Analyze existing studies. Example: Review articles on re-

newable energy.

• Identify Limitations: Note unresolved issues. Example: Limited studies on solar

energy in rural areas.

6
 • Ask Questions: Whats missing? Example: Are there studies on cost-effective
solar solutions?
• Use Databases: Search for trends. Example: Use Google Scholar to find recent
papers.
• Consult Experts: Discuss with peers. Example: Ask mentors about unexplored
areas.
Highlight: Identifying gaps ensures research contributes new knowledge.

2 Unit 2: Data Collection and Analysis

2.1 What are the different methods of data collection? Explain
Data collection gathers information to answer research questions.
Methods:
• Surveys: Questionnaires to collect data. Example: Surveying customer satisfac-
tion.
• Interviews: In-depth discussions. Example: Interviewing teachers about teaching
methods.
• Observations: Watching behaviors. Example: Observing classroom interactions.
• Experiments: Controlled tests. Example: Testing a drugs effects in a lab.
• Focus Groups: Group discussions. Example: Discussing product preferences with
consumers.
Highlight: The method chosen depends on the research type and objectives.

2.2 Define sampling. What are its different types with exam-
ples?
Sampling is selecting a subset of a population for study.
Types:
• Random Sampling: Every unit has an equal chance. Example: Randomly se-
lecting 100 students from a school.
• Stratified Sampling: Divide population into strata. Example: Sampling by age
groups.
• Cluster Sampling: Sample groups, not individuals. Example: Selecting entire
classes from a school.
• Systematic Sampling: Select every nth unit. Example: Choosing every 10th
customer.
• Purposive Sampling: Select based on criteria. Example: Interviewing only man-
agers.
Highlight: Sampling reduces cost and time while ensuring representativeness.

7
2.3 Differentiate between primary and secondary data
Primary Data is collected firsthand, while Secondary Data is obtained from existing
sources.
Differences:
• Source: Primary: Direct (e.g., surveys); Secondary: Indirect (e.g., reports).
• Cost/Time: Primary is costlier and time-consuming; Secondary is cheaper and
faster.
• Accuracy: Primary is more accurate; Secondary may be outdated.
• Example: Primary: Conducting a survey; Secondary: Using census data.
• Use: Primary for specific needs; Secondary for background.
Highlight: Both types are often used together for comprehensive analysis.

2.4 What are the steps in data processing and cleaning?

Data processing and cleaning ensure data is accurate and usable.
Steps:
• Data Entry: Input raw data into a system. Example: Enter survey responses into
Excel.
• Checking for Errors: Identify inaccuracies. Example: Correct typos in names.
• Handling Missing Data: Address gaps. Example: Use averages to fill missing
values.
• Standardization: Ensure consistency. Example: Convert all dates to a single
format.
• Outlier Detection: Remove or adjust anomalies. Example: Exclude extreme
values in income data.
Highlight: Clean data improves the reliability of analysis.

2.5 Explain the concept of method validation with an example

Method validation ensures a research method is reliable and accurate.
Explanation:
• Purpose: Confirms the method measures what it intends to.
• Steps: Test for accuracy, precision, and consistency.
• Example: Validating a new blood sugar test by comparing results with a standard
test, ensuring consistent and accurate readings.
• Importance: Ensures credibility of findings.
• Application: Used in experiments, surveys, etc.
Highlight: Validation is critical for trustworthy research outcomes.

8
2.6 What is SPSS? Explain its uses in data analysis
SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) is a software for statistical analysis.
Uses:
• Data Management: Organize and clean data. Example: Import survey data.
• Descriptive Statistics: Calculate means, medians. Example: Summarize test
scores.
• Inferential Statistics: Run tests like t-tests, ANOVA. Example: Compare group
performance.
• Data Visualization: Create charts. Example: Plot trends in sales data.
• Regression Analysis: Study relationships. Example: Analyze factors affecting
sales.
Highlight: SPSS simplifies complex statistical analysis for researchers.

2.7 What is a t-test? When and how is it used?

A t-test compares means of two groups to determine if they differ significantly.
Details:
• When Used: When comparing two groups (e.g., test scores of two classes).
• Types: Independent t-test (two groups), Paired t-test (same group, different con-
ditions).
• How Used: Collect data, calculate t-value, compare with critical value. Example:
Compare drug effectiveness between two patient groups.
• Assumptions: Normal distribution, equal variances.
• Outcome: Determines if difference is statistically significant.
Highlight: T-tests are ideal for small sample sizes with numerical data.

2.8 What is ANOVA? How is it different from a t-test?

ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) compares means of three or more groups.
Differences:
• Group Comparison: T-test compares two groups; ANOVA compares three or
more.
• Purpose: ANOVA tests if at least one group differs. Example: Compare test
scores of three teaching methods.
• Complexity: ANOVA is more complex, using F-statistic.
• Application: T-test for simple comparisons; ANOVA for multiple groups.
• Example: T-test: Compare two diets; ANOVA: Compare five diets.
Highlight: ANOVA avoids multiple t-tests, reducing error rates.

9
2.9 Explain the role of statistical packages in research
Statistical packages are software tools for data analysis.
Roles:

• Efficiency: Automate calculations. Example: SPSS runs t-tests quickly.

• Accuracy: Minimize human error. Example: R ensures precise regression results.

• Visualization: Generate graphs. Example: Plot trends using Excel.

• Complex Analysis: Handle large datasets. Example: SAS for big data analysis.

• Reproducibility: Standardize processes. Example: Share R scripts for replication.

Highlight: Statistical packages enhance the quality and speed of research analysis.

2.10 Define Hypothesis Testing and mention its steps

Hypothesis Testing assesses if a hypothesis is supported by data.
Steps:

• State Hypotheses: Null (H0) and alternative (H1). Example: H0: No difference
in means.

• Choose Significance Level: Typically 0.05. Example: Set alpha to 5%.

• Collect Data: Gather sample data. Example: Survey 100 participants.

• Perform Test: Use appropriate test (e.g., t-test). Example: Calculate t-value.

• Make Decision: Reject or fail to reject H0. Example: If p-value < 0.05, reject
H0.

Highlight: Hypothesis testing ensures objective decision-making in research.

3 Unit 3: Research Ethics, IPR, and Scholarly Pub-

lishing
3.1 What are the ethical issues in research? Explain with ex-
amples
Ethical issues ensure research is conducted responsibly.
Issues:

• Informed Consent: Participants must agree knowingly. Example: Not informing

subjects about a drug trials risks.

• Confidentiality: Protect participant data. Example: Leaking patient records.

• Plagiarism: Using others work without credit. Example: Copying a paper without
citation.

10
 • Animal Welfare: Ensure humane treatment. Example: Unnecessary harm in
animal testing.

• Fabrication: Falsifying data. Example: Making up survey results.

Highlight: Ethics safeguard the integrity of research.

3.2 What is plagiarism? How can it be avoided in research?

Plagiarism is using someone elses work without proper credit.
Avoidance Methods:

• Cite Sources: Acknowledge all references. Example: Use APA style for citations.

• Paraphrase Properly: Rewrite in your own words. Example: Summarize a

studys findings.

• Use Plagiarism Tools: Check for unintentional copying. Example: Use Turnitin.

• Quote Directly: Use quotation marks for exact words. Example: Quote a defini-
tion with citation.

• Understand Rules: Learn academic integrity policies. Example: Follow univer-

sity guidelines.

Highlight: Avoiding plagiarism ensures research credibility.

3.3 What is IMRAD structure in research publishing?

IMRAD (Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion) is a standard research paper
structure.
Components:

• Introduction: State the problem and objectives. Example: Why study climate
change?

• Methods: Describe the research process. Example: Explain survey design.

• Results: Present findings. Example: Show statistical outcomes.

• Discussion: Interpret results and implications. Example: Discuss policy impacts.

• Use: Common in scientific journals.

Highlight: IMRAD ensures a logical flow in research papers.

11
3.4 What are Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)? Explain types
IPR protects creations of the mind.
Types:

• Patent: Protects inventions. Example: A new smartphone technology.

• Copyright: Protects original works. Example: A novel or song.

• Trademark: Protects brand identifiers. Example: A company logo.

• Trade Secret: Protects confidential info. Example: A recipe for a soft drink.

• Design Rights: Protects product appearance. Example: A cars unique shape.

Highlight: IPR encourages innovation by securing creators rights.

3.5 Write short notes on patent and copyright

Patent:

• Protects new inventions for a limited period (e.g., 20 years).

• Grants exclusive rights to the inventor.

• Example: A patent for a new solar panel design.

Copyright:

• Protects original creative works (e.g., books, music).

• Lasts for the creators lifetime plus 5070 years.

• Example: Copyright for a novel.

Highlight: Both protect intellectual creations but differ in scope.

3.6 Explain the function of ethical committees in human/animal

research
Ethical committees oversee research to ensure ethical standards.
Functions:

• Review Proposals: Assess risks and benefits. Example: Approve a clinical trial.

• Ensure Consent: Verify informed consent. Example: Check participant forms.

• Protect Welfare: Safeguard humans/animals. Example: Limit animal testing

pain.

• Monitor Compliance: Ensure ethical conduct. Example: Regular progress checks.

• Resolve Issues: Address ethical concerns. Example: Handle complaints.

Highlight: Committees ensure research is safe and ethical.

12
3.7 What is commercialization in research?
Commercialization is turning research outcomes into marketable products or services.
Details:
• Purpose: Generate economic value. Example: Sell a new drug.

• Process: Involves patents, licensing, or startups. Example: License a technology

to a company.

• Benefits: Funds further research, benefits society.

• Challenges: Balancing profit with ethics.

• Example: Commercializing a new solar panel technology.

Highlight: Commercialization bridges research and real-world impact.

3.8 What is TRIPS agreement? Why is it important?

TRIPS (Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights) is a global agreement
under the WTO.
Details:
• Purpose: Sets minimum standards for IPR protection.

• Scope: Covers patents, copyrights, trademarks, etc.

• Importance: Ensures fair trade, protects innovation. Example: Standardizes

patent laws globally.

• Impact: Encourages global innovation and technology transfer.

• Challenges: Balancing developed and developing countries needs.

Highlight: TRIPS promotes global innovation while ensuring equity.

3.9 Explain the importance of citation and referencing

Citation and referencing give credit to original sources.
Importance:
• Avoid Plagiarism: Acknowledge others work. Example: Cite a study in APA
style.

• Support Claims: Provide evidence. Example: Reference data on climate change.

• Enable Verification: Allow readers to check sources. Example: List journal

articles.

• Show Scholarship: Demonstrate research depth. Example: Cite multiple studies.

• Legal/Ethical: Respect IPR. Example: Avoid legal issues.

Highlight: Proper citation enhances research credibility.

13
3.10 Define reproducibility and accountability in research
Reproducibility: Ability to replicate research results.

• Ensures reliability. Example: Repeating an experiment with the same results.

Accountability: Responsibility for research conduct and outcomes.

• Ensures transparency. Example: Sharing data and methods.

Highlight: Both ensure trust and integrity in research.

4 Unit 4: Interpretation and Report Writing

4.1 What is interpretation in research? What are its tech-
niques?
Interpretation is analyzing and explaining research findings.
Techniques:
• Comparative Analysis: Compare results with prior studies. Example: Compare
current data with past trends.

• Statistical Interpretation: Use statistical results. Example: Interpret p-values.

• Thematic Analysis: Identify patterns in qualitative data. Example: Find themes

in interviews.

• Causal Analysis: Determine cause-effect. Example: Link education to income

levels.

• Contextualization: Relate findings to the broader field. Example: Discuss impli-

cations for policy.
Highlight: Interpretation turns raw data into meaningful insights.

4.2 What precautions should be taken during interpretation of

results?
Precautions:
• Avoid Bias: Dont let personal views skew results. Example: Interpret data objec-
tively.

• Check Data Quality: Ensure data is reliable. Example: Verify survey responses.

• Avoid Overgeneralization: Dont overextend findings. Example: Limit claims to

the sample studied.

• Consider Limitations: Acknowledge study constraints. Example: Note small

sample size.

14
 • Use Appropriate Tools: Match methods to data type. Example: Use statistical
tests for quantitative data.

Highlight: Careful interpretation ensures valid conclusions.

4.3 List and explain the steps in writing a research report

Steps:

• Plan the Structure: Follow a standard layout (e.g., IMRAD). Example: Outline
sections.

• Write Introduction: State objectives and background. Example: Explain the

research problem.

• Describe Methods: Detail the process. Example: Explain data collection.

• Present Results: Show findings clearly. Example: Use tables and graphs.

• Discuss Findings: Interpret and conclude. Example: Link results to hypotheses.

Highlight: A systematic approach ensures a coherent report.

4.4 Differentiate between project report and research report

Project Report: Documents a specific projects progress and outcomes.
Research Report: Presents findings from a scientific study.
Differences:

• Purpose: Project: Track implementation; Research: Share new knowledge.

• Content: Project: Includes timelines, budgets; Research: Focuses on methods,

results.

• Audience: Project: Stakeholders; Research: Academics.

• Example: Project: Report on building a bridge; Research: Study on bridge ma-

terials.

• Structure: Project: Varies; Research: Often IMRAD.

Highlight: Both serve distinct purposes in documentation.

4.5 Explain the importance of report writing in research

Importance:

• Communicate Findings: Share results with others. Example: Publish in a jour-

nal.

• Document Process: Record methods for replication. Example: Detail experi-

ment steps.

15
 • Support Decision-Making: Inform policy or practice. Example: Influence edu-
cation reforms.
• Enhance Credibility: Show rigorous work. Example: Include citations.
• Facilitate Peer Review: Allow scrutiny. Example: Submit for journal review.
Highlight: Report writing ensures research impacts the wider community.

4.6 What is the standard layout of a research report?

Layout:
• Title Page: Title, author, date. Example: "Study on Climate Change."
• Abstract: Summary of the study. Example: 200-word overview.
• Introduction: Problem and objectives. Example: State research questions.
• Methods: Research design and process. Example: Describe sampling.
• Results and Discussion: Findings and interpretation. Example: Present data
and implications.
Highlight: A standard layout ensures clarity and professionalism.

4.7 Write short notes on oral presentation of research

Oral Presentation:
• Involves presenting research verbally, often with slides.
• Key Aspects: Clear speech, visual aids, audience engagement.
• Example: Present findings at a conference using PowerPoint.
• Tips: Practice, time management, handle questions.
• Purpose: Share results, get feedback.
Highlight: Effective presentations enhance research visibility.

4.8 What are different types of research reports?

Types:
• Technical Reports: Detailed, for experts. Example: Lab experiment report.
• Popular Reports: Simplified, for the public. Example: Magazine article.
• Interim Reports: Progress updates. Example: Mid-study report.
• Summary Reports: Brief overview. Example: Executive summary.
• Thesis/Dissertation: Academic submission. Example: PhD thesis.
Highlight: Report type depends on the audience and purpose.

16
4.9 Explain the mechanics of writing a research report
Mechanics:

• Clarity: Use simple language. Example: Avoid jargon.

• Structure: Follow a logical flow. Example: Use IMRAD.

• Formatting: Consistent fonts, headings. Example: Use 12pt font.

• Citations: Properly reference sources. Example: Use APA style.

• Visuals: Include graphs, tables. Example: Add a chart for data.

Highlight: Good mechanics ensure readability and professionalism.

4.10 What are common precautions for writing research re-

ports?
Precautions:

• Avoid Plagiarism: Cite all sources. Example: Use quotation marks.

• Check Accuracy: Verify data and facts. Example: Recheck statistical results.

• Be Objective: Avoid personal bias. Example: Present all findings.

• Use Clear Language: Avoid ambiguity. Example: Define technical terms.

• Proofread: Correct errors. Example: Fix typos and grammar.

Highlight: Precautions ensure a high-quality, credible report.

17