Writing a Dissertation Results Section is a crucial step in presenting your research findings with clarity, accuracy, and professionalism. This part of your dissertation holds the key to demonstrating how well your research questions or hypotheses have been addressed through data analysis. Often overshadowed by the more interpretive Discussion section, the Results section is about factual reporting—showing what your data reveals without interpretation or subjective bias. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how to craft an effective Dissertation Results Section that meets academic standards, engages your readers, and communicates your findings convincingly.
Understanding the Purpose of the Dissertation Results Section
Why It Matters
The Results section in a dissertation serves as the backbone of your research documentation. It provides a transparent account of the data collected and analyzed, enabling readers and evaluators to verify the validity of your claims. Well-presented results give your research credibility and serve as a foundation for the interpretation that follows in the Discussion.
Differences From the Discussion Section
While the Results section focuses on reporting data objectively—including descriptive statistics, visuals, and inferential analyses—the Discussion interprets these findings, highlights their significance, and relates them to existing literature. Clarifying this distinction ensures clarity and precision throughout your dissertation.
Preparing to Write the Dissertation Results Section
Review Research Hypotheses and Questions
Before starting to write, revisit your research hypotheses or questions. Clearly understanding what you aimed to test or explore guides the organization of your results. This alignment ensures that each result reported contributes directly to addressing your research objectives.
Organizing Data for Clear Presentation
Data Coding and Categorization
Carefully code and categorize your data during analysis to facilitate straightforward reporting. Consistent coding prevents confusion and supports accurate data summarization.
Ensuring Data Accuracy and Completeness
Double-check all data entries and analysis outputs to prevent errors. Completeness is vital—omit no relevant data, but avoid overloading the section with insignificant details.
Selecting Visual Presentation Tools
Tables
Use tables to organize large amounts of data, such as descriptive statistics or comparative results. Ensure they are well-structured, labeled, and easily understood.
Figures (Charts, Graphs, Diagrams)
Visual aids like bar charts, line graphs, and diagrams help illustrate trends and relationships clearly. Visuals make complex data more accessible, but they must be relevant and properly referenced.
Structuring and Populating the Results Section
Presentation of Findings
Order of Presentation
Decide whether to present findings **chronologically**—following the sequence of your data collection—or **thematically**, grouped by research question or hypothesis. This structure helps maintain logical flow and coherence.
Reporting Both Positive and Negative Results
Maintain objectivity by reporting all relevant outcomes, regardless of whether they support your initial hypotheses. Transparency enhances the credibility of your research.
Descriptive Statistics
Include measures such as means, medians, standard deviations, and ranges to summarize data characteristics. These statistics provide a snapshot of your sample and variables.
Frequency Distributions and Percentages
Use frequency tables and percentages to communicate how often specific responses or categories occur within your data set, especially in categorical data analysis.
Inferential Statistics
Report the results of statistical tests such as t-tests, ANOVA, regression analyses, or chi-square tests. Include p-values, confidence intervals, and effect sizes to demonstrate the significance and strength of your findings.
Tables and Figures: Clear and Referenced
Ensure each visual element is properly labeled, with descriptive captions that summarize what the table or figure shows. Reference these visuals appropriately within your text to guide readers seamlessly through your data presentation. For example, “As shown in Table 2, the average score increased significantly…”
Effective Writing Tips for the Dissertation Results Section
Objectivity and Clarity
Present data without interpretation or subjective commentary. Save insights and explanations for the Discussion section.
Conciseness
Be precise and avoid unnecessary detail—highlight only the most relevant results aligned with your research questions.
Use Past Tense
Describe analyses and data in the past tense, as these actions have already been completed.
Consistency
Maintain uniformity in formatting, terminology, and presentation style throughout the section.
Highlight Significant Findings
Emphasize statistically significant results with appropriate formatting, such as bolding p-values below a threshold (e.g., p < 0.05), to draw attention without overstatement.
Common Challenges in the Dissertation Results Section and How to Overcome Them
Information Overload
Focus on key findings pertinent to your research questions. Use supplementary materials like appendices for extensive data, keeping the main section streamlined.
Misinterpretation of Statistical Significance
Remember that statistical significance does not imply practical relevance. Report effect sizes and confidence intervals for a more nuanced understanding.
Inconsistent Data Presentation
Stick to one style guide (APA, Chicago, etc.) for formatting tables, figures, and citations to ensure consistency and professionalism.
Strategies
- Prioritize key findings based on your hypotheses
- Utilize supplementary materials to manage data volume
Integrating Visuals Effectively in Your Dissertation Results Section
Guidelines for Creating and Using Visuals
- Ensure visuals are clear, accurate, and labeled properly
- Use color judiciously to enhance readability
- Include descriptive captions that explain what each visual demonstrates
Placement of Visuals
Position visuals close to the relevant text that discusses them, ensuring smooth flow and avoiding interruption of reading.
Referencing Visuals in Text
Always reference each visual within your narrative, e.g., “Figure 3 illustrates the correlation between variables…“
Ensuring Ethical and Accurate Reporting
Avoid Data Manipulation
Present data honestly without selectively reporting favorable outcomes or hiding contradictory findings. Transparency fosters trust with your audience.
Clarify Data Limitations
Be upfront about any limitations, such as small sample size or measurement errors, to prevent misinterpretation.
Proper Attribution
Credit statistical methods and software used—refer to reputable resources like statistical guidelines.
Sample Layout of an Effective Dissertation Results Section
| Section | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Introductory Overview | Brief summary of key findings | “The results indicate significant differences across groups in…” |
| Research Question 1 | Present relevant data with visuals | Data tables and bar charts illustrating findings related to hypothesis 1 |
| Research Question 2 | Report findings systematically | Descriptive statistics followed by inferential test results for hypothesis 2 |
| Summary | Summarize main data points and implications | Highlights of significant and non-significant findings |
Final Checks and Review
Proofreading
Check for clarity, accuracy, and grammar. Ensure all figures and tables are correctly labeled and referenced.
Alignment with Research Objectives
Verify that the results directly address your research questions or hypotheses, maintaining consistency throughout.
Cross-Referencing
Ensure that all visuals and data points are correctly cross-referenced in your narrative for seamless understanding.
Additional Resources for Crafting Your Dissertation Results Section
- APA Style Guidelines
- Statistical Software Tools
- Sample templates from academic institutions
- Guidelines provided by dissertation handbooks and writing centers
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How many tables and figures should be included in the Dissertation Results Section?
- There is no set number; focus on presenting all relevant and impactful data. Typically, 3-8 visuals are sufficient, but it varies by study complexity.
- Can I interpret my data in the Results section?
- No, interpretation belongs in the Discussion section. Keep Results objective and factual.
- What if I have too much data to include in the main text?
- Use supplementary materials or appendices to include extensive data, referencing them appropriately in the Results section.
- How do I report non-significant findings?
- Report them clearly and include relevant statistics. Transparency about all findings strengthens your credibility.
- Should I use visual aids for every data point?
- No, prioritize visuals for complex or critical data. Overuse can clutter the Results section and reduce clarity.
- What tense should I use when describing my results?
- Use the past tense since analyses are finished—e.g., “The analysis showed…”
- How do I ensure ethical reporting?
- Be honest, include limitations, and avoid manipulating data or presenting only favorable results.
Crafting a Dissertation Results Section that is clear, accurate, and well-organized is essential for a successful dissertation. By following the guidelines detailed above, you ensure your findings are communicated effectively, laying a strong foundation for the subsequent interpretation and conclusion. Remember, the dissertation results showcase the core of your research—treat it with precision, objectivity, and professionalism to leave a lasting and credible impression.