How to Write a Research Methodology

There are many different components that come together to create an exhaustive and effective research methodology: 

• Research Method: Your research methodology must outline which research method you chose to employ. There are three main types of research methods; quantitative analysis, qualitative analysis, or mixed-methods analysis. The method you choose is dependent on what the goals of your research are and the topic of research.  

• Reasons for Chosen Method: It is not enough to simply explain which method you chose; you must also elaborate on why 

• Data Collection Methods: An important component of your research methodology is the outline of your chosen data collection methods. You must explain which instruments and techniques were used to gather data and must also justify why you chose them. Some commonly used methods of data collection are interviews, surveys, experiments, etc. 

• Data Analysis Methods: Once you’ve explained how you gathered your data, you must also explain how you will analyze it. There is a myriad of tools used by researchers to process data and in this section of your research methodology, you should explain which one you chose and why you chose it. 

• Explanations and Background Information: This will act as a preface that will allow readers to better understand your research methodology. There may be certain aspects of your research methodology that your reader may be unfamiliar with, and such parts should be explained in further detail. 
• Sampling Process: Your research methodology should explain the sampling procedure chosen as well as the reasons as to why this procedure was selected. 
• Limitations: You must also include the limitations of any techniques, procedures, or methods employed within your study. This is an important part of your research methodology as it shows readers that you have objectively weighed the effectiveness of the methods chosen and have indeed chosen the best route possible/feasible to conduct your research.