A methodology chapter explains why the design can answer the research question. Describe decisions and their consequences rather than only listing procedures.
A practical starting point
Connect selection, collection and analysis with the question. Explain how ethical and practical constraints shaped the final design.
Understand the task
A methodology explains how the investigation was designed and why that design fits the question. Distinguish the overall approach from the individual tools used to collect data. The chapter should make the logic of the study visible.
Develop the reasoning
Describe selection, access and collection in enough detail for the reader to assess the work. Explain who or what was included, why the boundaries were chosen and what practical constraints affected the process.
Use evidence carefully
State how the data were analysed and how that analysis addresses the question. Discuss quality, uncertainty and the limits of the design. Ethical considerations need to describe the actual measures taken rather than a general statement about good practice.
Review the finished work
Write the final account of the method you used, including justified departures from the proposal. Keep records of decisions and approvals. Check that the findings chapter reports evidence produced by that method.
Before you submit
- Check the brief and marking criteria for this task.
- Confirm the source and date of each factual claim.
- Review the argument before making the final language checks.
- Keep the final file and any submission confirmation.
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