Cover Page Executive Summary Table of Contents Background Problem/ Opportunity Research Objectives
Action Standard Research Method Research Results Managerial Implications Appendices Acknowledge Sources
The Results provide the evidence generated and its interpretation to address the Objectives.
Results should be presented in a logical order that may not match the order of data collection and analysis.
- If the Objectives described three key questions, then the Results may logically be presented in that order.
- If the questions were addressed by a sequential analysis of a database (i.e., from simple to more complex), the Results may be most logically presented in that order.
- In either case, the Results section may begin with a depiction of the respondents, (i.e., characteristics of the respondent), or depiction of the current state of knowledge (i.e., what does the existing data show?).
The Results section is an appropriate place for intentional repetition. To use the Results correctly, the reader may need to be reminded of exactly which data were used (i.e., what the question or variable was), who provided the answers (i.e., all surveyed or just one group), sample size, time period, and so forth. It is a good, standard practice to include this type of information in tables, charts or graphs.
Consider carefully the best form in which to provide the Results.
- Text/words are generally better to define the context and provide the interpretation of the data or analysis.
- Tables, charts or graphs are often more effective to show numerical values and demonstrate magnitude (i.e., how big or how small) or comparisons.
- Use both to provide the reader with the question addressed and your interpretation along with the evidence used to make the interpretation.