science report writing
TRANSCRIPT
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Writing a Scientific Report
Scientific Report Structure
Title page (to give a good first impression)
Abstract
Table of contents (depending on the length)
Introduction
Method
Results
Discussion
Conclusion
References
Appendices
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Title Page
First Impression
Clear format
Gives information
required
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Executive summary
Purpose and aims
Methods used
Main findings
Most important conclusion
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Table of contents
Easy to read
Leads the audience to the correct
information
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Introduction
Describe what you have been asked to investigate
Why is it important?
Who is your audience?
What is the purpose?
What research is out there already?
How are you going to carry out your investigation?
What are you going to write in your report?
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Method
How did you collect your data?
Qualitative or quantitative?
Describe your method
Refer to appendices (for example observation notes)
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Results
Present your results in the same order collected
Not all data can be presented – look at the most relevant
to your brief
Describe in words
Present in one format e.g. graphs, tables or diagrams
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Discussion
Interpret your findings
Offer explanations
Provide evidence
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Language
This seems to support…
It appears that…
This may be due to…
Research suggests …
Prior studies have noted…
The results show/indicate …
… can be compared to ….
Previous
research
Conclusion – so what?
What do my findings show?
Are there any limitations in
the research?
What does this mean for my
readers?
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References
In text
According to Bell (2010, p. 23), the most important part of the research
process is ...
Burton (2012) provided information for…
Reference page
Bell, J. (2010). Doing your research project, 5th ed. Maidenhead: Open
University Press.
Burton, P.A. (2012). Castles of Spain. Available at:
http://www.castlesofspain.co.uk, [Accessed 14 October 2012].
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Appendices
Additional information that would disrupt the reader if included
in the main report, but is useful to understand context
Questionnaires
Data
Interview transcripts
Observation notes
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Where can I get further help?
Course Resources
Sections on each area students ask for support in
Study Skills webpages
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Study Advisor Scheme
Study Skills Office, Kedleston Road Library
01332 591369
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