What is the results section of a scientific article and how do you write it?

The results section of a scientific article

Key functions of the results section
How academics can use the results section
Tips for writing an effective results section
Related resources

The results section is the heart of a scientific article. It presents the outcomes of the research in an objective and structured way, without interpretation or discussion. This section allows readers to see the evidence on which later conclusions are based.

Key functions of the results section

A clear results section should:

Present key findings: Summarize the main outcomes in direct relation to the research question or hypothesis.
Provide supporting evidence: Use tables, figures, and graphs to illustrate data and make patterns visible.
Highlight statistical results: Report the most relevant tests, measures, and significance levels.
Maintain objectivity: Focus on facts and avoid speculation—interpretation belongs in the discussion section.

How academics can use the results section

For readers and researchers, the results section provides the foundation for critical analysis. It helps them:

Understand the main outcomes: Grasp the essence of what the study found.
Evaluate the evidence: Judge the strength of the findings based on data and statistical reporting.
Prepare for interpretation: Follow the results in a format that leads naturally into discussion and implications.

Tips for writing an effective results section

When presenting results, consider these principles:

Organize logically: Structure results in line with your research questions or hypotheses.
Be concise: Focus on essential outcomes, avoiding repetition or unnecessary details.
Use clear language: Report findings accurately and without jargon.
Integrate visuals effectively: Ensure tables, figures, and graphs are clear, well-labeled, and easy to interpret.
Emphasize key statistics: Draw attention to significant and relevant results.
Stay consistent: Apply uniform terminology and formatting throughout.

Related resources

For more on structuring scientific articles, see:

Tip category:

Studies & Exams

Supporting content or organization page:

What is the discussion section of a scientific article and how do you write it?

The discussion section of a scientific article

Key functions of the discussion section
How academics can use the discussion section
Tips for writing an effective discussion section
Related resources

The discussion section is the culmination of a scientific article. It interprets the findings, places them in context, and connects the study to the broader field of knowledge. In this way, it acts as a bridge between specific results and the wider scientific landscape.

Key functions of the discussion section

A strong discussion should:

Interpret the findings: Explain what the results mean in relation to the research question or hypothesis.
Relate to existing literature: Compare results with earlier studies, noting agreements, differences, and new contributions.
Acknowledge limitations: Identify any design, data, or analytical constraints that may influence conclusions.
Propose future directions: Suggest how future studies could build on the findings.
Draw conclusions: Summarize the implications of the research clearly and concisely.

How academics can use the discussion section

For readers and researchers, the discussion provides:

Critical analysis: Goes beyond reporting results by explaining their meaning and significance.
Insight into contributions: Shows how the study advances knowledge, theory, or practice.
Engagement with the field: Offers interpretations that spark reflection and discussion in the wider community.

Tips for writing an effective discussion section

When writing the discussion, keep these principles in mind:

Begin with a summary: Briefly restate the most important findings.
Connect back to the introduction: Link interpretations to the original research question or hypothesis.
Address findings systematically: Discuss each major result and its implications.
Support interpretations with evidence: Use references and your own data to strengthen arguments.
Acknowledge limitations: Be transparent about constraints and their possible impact.
Suggest next steps: Point to future research that could expand or test your conclusions.
End with clear conclusions: State the overall implications concisely.
Stay objective and coherent: Avoid speculation and maintain a logical flow throughout.