Exam 14: Writing a Research Manuscript

Correct Answer:

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In academic writing, particularly in scientific research articles, the Results and Discussion sections serve distinct but complementary purposes. Here are the differences between the two:

Results Section:
1. Presentation of Data: The Results section is where the researcher presents the findings of the study without interpretation. It includes data in the form of text, tables, figures, and graphs.
2. Objectivity: This section is purely objective and should not include any personal opinions, interpretations, or bias. It is a straightforward account of what was observed or measured during the study.
3. Structure: The Results section is typically organized according to the sequence of the study's methods or research questions. It follows a logical flow that aligns with the experimental design or investigation process.
4. Clarity and Precision: The focus is on clarity and precision in reporting the outcomes. The researcher must ensure that the results are presented clearly so that the reader can understand the findings without ambiguity.
5. No Conclusions: While the Results section may hint at the implications of the findings, it does not draw conclusions or explain the significance of the results. That is reserved for the Discussion section.

Discussion Section:
1. Interpretation of Data: The Discussion section is where the researcher interprets the results, offering insights into what the findings mean within the context of the study and the existing literature.
2. Subjectivity and Reasoning: This section allows for some subjectivity, as the researcher can express their understanding and reasoning behind the results. It is where the researcher can argue for their interpretations and propose explanations.
3. Contextualization: The Discussion connects the results to the broader context, comparing them with other studies and discussing their relevance to the field. It often addresses whether the results support or contradict previous research.
4. Implications and Limitations: The researcher discusses the implications of the findings for theory, practice, or further research. This section also typically includes a discussion of the study's limitations and suggestions for future research.
5. Conclusions: The Discussion section often ends with a conclusion that summarizes the main findings and their significance. It may also provide recommendations based on the study's outcomes.

In summary, the Results section is a descriptive part of the paper that reports the data, while the Discussion section is an analytical part that interprets the data and places it within a broader scientific context. Both sections are crucial for a complete understanding of the research conducted, but they serve different roles in communicating the study's contributions to knowledge.