Writing Research Reports in the
Biological Sciences
By
Michael G. Smircich
Biology and Marine Biology Peer Tutor
This handout is
provided by the CLR.
7 Main Sections
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Abstract
Introduction
Materials and Methods
Results (Data)
Discussion
Conclusion
References (works cited)
Abstract
•
•
•
•
•
Why the experiment was done
What questions/problem was addressed
How the research was done
What major results were obtained
What major conclusions were drawn
• Don’t be fooled, this paragraph could make or
break your entire paper!!!
Introduction
• Background information from previous studies
that directly relates to your research
• Should anticipate any questions that are
discussed later
• Should end with a clear statement of the
specific issues that will be addressed in the
report
Introduction
• Should NOT:
– analyze results
– List data
– Go into detail about methods
– Make any conclusions
Materials and Methods
• Must be descriptive
– Anyone should be able to read this section and
replicate your experiment
• Include all details that may have influenced
your results
• Should NOT include details that are irrelevant
– i.e. we used #2 pencils to write in our notebooks
Results
• Summarize your findings
– Use tables, graphs, illustrations, and words
• Draw readers attention to major observations,
trends, and important points
• Be selective about including tables and graphs
– Present data only once
• DO NOT INTERPRET DATA HERE!!!
Results
• Good or bad?
Results
• Now this is good!
Discussion
• Interpret your results
• Why were your results different than
expected?
• How do your results compare to other similar
studies?
• Ideas for future research
• Ways to improve your experiment for future
recreations
Conclusion
• Reiterate your original hypothesis or question
statement
– Did you answer/solve your question?
• Sum up your findings
• Suggest ways this study can be built upon in
the future
Works Cited
• Should include all data you referenced
• Typically done in APA format
– In text citations should include (Author, date of
publication) after the statement you quoted
– i.e. Starfish have radial symmetry (Smircich,1999)
• Reference list should be in alphabetical order
according to author’s last name
Works Cited
• Example reference
– Calabrese, A., Davis, H.C. (1966). The pH tolerance
of embryos and larvae of Mercenaria
mercenaria and Crassostrea virginica. Biological
Bulletin. Vol. 131. No. 3. pp. 427-436
• For more help with APA format:
– http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/560/
01/
Acknowledgment (optional)
• Some people may choose to add this section
to thank anyone who has helped make their
paper possible
• Try to be short and concise
• This can often be a tricky section
• You never want to insult anyone by not including them
Should I write each section in order?
• Easiest method
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Materials and Methods
Results
Discussion
Introduction
Abstract
• Most importantly, do whatever works best
for you!
Thank you!
If you have an questions, please email me
at msmir1@unh.newhaven.edu
You may request an electronic copy of this
presentation