writing in the disciplines

writing in biology

results

The results section summarizes the data gathered in the study, supporting patterns and trends with specific evidence from the research. As you read through the results, focus first on the qualitative results—the written summaries of the the numerical data. Once you have a general understanding on the qualitative level, it will then be easier to go back over the figures and tables and to put the data into context. (See reading data for advice on reading figures, tables, and graphs.) As you analyze the data, ask yourself, “What were the major findings of this study?”

Adapted from McMillan VE. Writing papers in the biological sciences. 4th ed. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin's; 2006. 269 p.

abstract | introduction | methods and materials | results | discussion