Research Methodology Writing Help

Introduction

The research methodology discusses and explains the data collection and analysis methods used. The methodology chapter, a crucial section of your thesis, dissertation, or research paper, outlines what you did and how you did it so that readers may assess the authenticity and accuracy of the study.

Writing the methodology of a research paper can be daunting, especially for complex topics. Our goal is to guide researchers in creating an effective research methodology by assisting them in providing a clear understanding. Our guidance might be valuable if you're struggling with your writing process. We can help you by using our wealth of expertise, know-how, and human resources to finish your academic assignments with excellent quality and minor hassles.

The basic structure of a research methodology

First, it's important to note that the methodology chapter's specific form and contents will differ based on the study subject and the university. Therefore, it is wise to ensure that the instructions provided by your university are transparent and, if at all feasible, to examine previous theses and dissertations from your institution. Here, we'll talk about the general format for a methodology chapter.

Introduction

The research design must align with your research aims, objectives, and questions; thus, it's helpful to state this upfront to remind the reader of your design and methodology aims. Here, you can also briefly describe the chapter's organization, giving the reader direction and a road map to know what to anticipate.

The Research Design

You must clearly and concisely explain and justify all significant design decisions. Don't hold back on the information because this is the most crucial part of your methodology chapter. The most popular design possibilities are:

Research Philosophy

The term "research philosophy" refers to the underlying assumptions guiding the collection, analysis, and utilization of evidence about a phenomenon. In quantitative research, positivism is frequently the underpinning research philosophy. In contrast, interpretivism, often the underpinning research philosophy in qualitative research, assumes that each observer's perception of reality differs from another.

Research Type

Choosing between inductive and deductive research methods is the first step in this process. Inductive research develops theory from the evidence gathered; hence these investigations typically take an exploratory approach. Deductive research begins with a pre-existing view and adds to it with gathered facts; hence these investigations take a confirmatory tack. In connection with this, you must specify if your study uses a methodology based on qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods.

Research Strategy

Case studies, ethnography, grounded theory, action research, and phenomenology are just a few research strategies.

Time Horizon

The two options available are longitudinal, used when data is gathered at once, and cross-sectional, used if the information is collected over several periods. 

Sampling Strategy

Probability and non-probability sampling are the two basic types of sampling. What you want to accomplish with your study will determine which sampling strategy is best.

Data Collection Techniques

The type of data you intend to gather—qualitative or quantitative—will determine your data collection method.

Data Analysis Techniques

When describing your analysis methodologies and procedures, don't leave room for interpretation. Methods of analysis for qualitative research include content analysis, thematic analysis, and discourse analysis. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods will be used in quantitative investigations (e.g., correlation and regression analysis).

Limitations

Research can have various methodological limitations, like time and budget restrictions to sample or selection bias problems. Don't be afraid to be critical because doing so will show your marker that you understand study design very well. Don't, however, agonize about your research. List the limitations, explain why they were appropriate, describe how you minimized their effects as much as possible, and explain how your study is still valuable despite these restrictions.

Conclusion Section

You'll want to summarize your chapter's content in this part briefly. This section is crucially important and should only be a paragraph or two long. Ensure to include the information you covered in your chapter in your conclusion and avoid adding additional information.

Final Notes

We always advise you to draft a preliminary plan before you begin writing so you have a direction to follow. Don't just start writing without planning where certain things will go. If you do, your story will probably be fragmented and poorly written. You'll spend a lot of time rewriting to put everything together. Start by considering the end in mind. Remember the fundamental principle of the methodology chapter – justify every choice! Be sure to provide a solid reason for each "what" and to cite reliable methodology books or academic sources to support your points.

Research Methodology FAQs

1. In a research paper, where does the methodology part go?

The methodology follows the introduction in a research journal and is put before the findings, analysis, and conclusion. 

2. What distinguishes methodologies from methods?

The overarching plan for your research is called methodology. Methods are the techniques you employ to gather and analyze data, such as experiments and surveys.

3. What distinguishes quantitative research from qualitative research?

In quantitative research, a hypothesis is tested using numbers and statistics through collecting and analyzing data. Qualitative research explores thoughts and experiences through language and interpretation.

Recommended Reading

Brannen, J., & Moss, G. (2012). Critical issues in designing mixed methods policy research. American Behavioral Scientist, 56 (6), 789-801. https://doi.org/10.1177/0002764211433796