https://www.sjsu.edu/writingcenter/docs/handouts/Methodology.pdf
Writing a Methodology Section Can Actually Be Easy
Writing a methodology section can actually be a pleasant, easy process. What? You’re crazy, right? No, seriously. In all honesty, the methodology section can be the easiest part of your paper or thesis to write.
How? Well, stick around. In this article, I’ll walk you through every element you need for a strong methodology section. As a result, you’ll have a template you can use to write your paper or thesis faster and more accurately. So, let’s dive in.
The Three Essential Elements
First, let’s cover the three essential elements every methodology section needs, no matter the field. Then, we’ll look at extra sections you might need in certain fields, or when writing a thesis instead of a paper.
If you want more detail on those three essential elements, check the link below. Here, I’ll simply mention them.
Background and Setting
To begin, your methodology section should include the background and setting of your study. This matters most in social sciences, especially for ethnographic studies. In these cases, you must clearly present where the study took place.
However, this step applies to other fields too. For example, a water management study often needs a detailed description of the region involved.
Defining Your Methodology
Next comes the second element. This one is especially common in theses, since they allow more space for detail. Even so, I like to include it near the start of every paper I write.
Specifically, this means defining the methodology you used. Then, justify why you chose it, especially if it’s less common in your field.
For instance, I often write something like: “This study was conducted using a mixed methods approach, which can be defined as…” After that, I explain why I chose this approach.
Sample and Sampling Technique
Third, and just as essential, is the sample and sampling technique. In short, this refers to who or what you studied, and how you selected them. I cover this in more detail in another video, linked below.
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Ethical Considerations
If your study involves human subjects, your methodology section also needs an ethical considerations part. In fact, peer reviewers treat this as a must-have box to tick.
In other words, explain how you protected participants. For example, keeping subjects anonymous and informing them about your study’s purpose are both essential steps.
Analyzing Your Data
After that, walk readers through your research tools and procedures. Again, I cover this in depth in another video, linked below.
Finally, explain how you analyzed your data. Don’t jump to results yet. Instead, describe the statistical models, procedures, or qualitative approach you used.
If you’re unsure which method fits your data, don’t worry. Discipline-specific handbooks on data analysis techniques can help you decide.
