2d. Results and Discussion

Why is the results and discussion considered the heart of the scientific paper?

It is where you finally reveal the new knowledge you have contributed to the world. Everything before this section (Introduction, Methods) is preparation; everything after (Conclusion) is a summary.

Describe the overall structure and flow of the Discussion section.

It moves from narrow to broad. Start with specific findings → compare with other researchers' papers → end with broad concepts introduced in the Background/Introduction.

Data summaries may take these forms.

• text

• tables

• figures

When do you use text in writing the results and discussion?

• The data are simple and not extensive.

• A table would only contain 2 or fewer rows/columns.

• The data are minor or not central to the study’s main findings.

What is the standard guideline for creating headings in the Results and Discussion (R&D) section?

Use descriptive headings. Group related results together.

What is the rule for the placement of text discussion relative to a table or figure?

You should discuss the contents of a table or figure before showing it in the document.

What are the optimal dimensions for an "easy-to-read" table?

4–6 columns; 9–12 rows

When is a line graph used? Give examples.

relationship between two quantitative (continuous) variables

• aerobic plate count during storage

• viscosity changes during processing

• moisture content during drying

It is used to present the relationship between two quantitative (continuous) variables.

line graph

When is a bar graph used?

the independent variable is discrete (discontinuous) data; to show how a group compares against others

• pH, color, etc. of different treatments

This is used when the independent variable is discrete (discontinuous) data; to show how a group compares against others.

bar graph

When is a pie chart used?

To show relative magnitudes of a few components of a whole unit; useful in social research

This is used to show relative magnitudes of a few components of a whole unit; useful in social research

pie chart

How to write the summary and conclusions?

1. Write a summary of your paper.

2. Write a statement of limitations.

3. Identify key findings and application.

4. Provide an outline of the implications of your study.

5. Conclusion = summary + limitations + implications