17. Body of the Research Report

The internal body of a research report typically houses five structurally distinct chapters or sections to clearly track the research process from conception to conclusion.

1. Problem Explanation (Introduction)

The first section grounds the reader. It clearly addresses:

• Statement of the Problem: Exactly what is being investigated.
• Purpose of the Study: Why it is important.
• Research Questions & Hypotheses: The baseline expectations.
• Definitions and Terms: Providing clarity on any ambiguous terminology used.

2. Review of the Literature

Outlines existing theories, previously published research, and the historical context surrounding the research problem.

3. Methods and Data Description

A meticulous breakdown of the physical approach. It must be transparent enough to be replicated by others.

• Subjects / Participants: Who or what was evaluated.
• Materials and Procedures: What instruments were used and how the test was deployed.
• Data Coding Criteria: How the raw data was sorted and translated for analysis.

4. Data Analysis and Interpretation (Results)

This chapter separates raw facts from human opinion.

• Directly addresses each hypothesis formulated in the introduction.
• Tests the data statically to evaluate if the hypothesis was "supported" or "rejected."

5. Conclusions and Study Weaknesses

The final chapter serves as an open discussion of the findings:

• Review of the Findings: Determining the overall significance of the data.
• Limitations (Study Weaknesses): Honest acknowledgement of flaws (e.g., cross-sectional limits, sample bias, or experimental errors). Researchers must report weaknesses alongside strengths.
• Implications & Future Research: How these findings impact current clinical/social practices, and what subsequent researchers should investigate next.

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