How to Write Research Methodology for 2025: Overview, Tips, and Techniques

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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The main aim of research is not merely to gather information. Instead, it goes beyond that. The true goal of research is to seek answers to previously unanswered questions to contribute to the body of knowledge in a discipline according to Goddard and Melville (2001, p.1).  But for your peers, and indeed the whole world, to recognize your newly discovered or created knowledge, you have to show evidence of its validity or truthfulness.

Determining the validity of your study is anchored on your research paper’s methodology. According to Somekh and Lewin (2005), a research methodology is both “the collection of methods or rules" you apply to your research, as well as the “principles, theories, and values" that support your research approach. Simply put, a research paper’s methodology section must shed light on how you were able to collect or generate your research data and demonstrate how you analyze them (SHU Library, 2020).

For novice researchers, writing the methodology of a research paper can be an overwhelming process, especially considering the intricate elements covered by this section (J. Ellis & Levy, 2009, p. 323). The goal of this article is to define what is research methodology, guide novice researchers in their research methodology writing, and to help them gain a clear understanding of a research methodology’s structure.

Table of Contents

1. What Is a Research Methodology?
2. How Can a Robust Research Methodology Elevate Your Career Prospects?
3. How Can Effective Data Management Strengthen Your Research Methodology?
4. Methodological Approach or Methods Used in Research
5. How to Justify Your Methodological Choices
6. Writing Your Research Paper Methodology
7. Ethical Considerations
8. Bridging Research Methodology and Creative Practices
9. Practical Examples of Methodology in Published Research
10. How Can You Enhance Research Transparency and Reproducibility?
11. What Are Emerging Trends in Research Methodology?
12. What Role Do Accelerated Programs Play in Enhancing Methodological Expertise?
13. What Are the Common Pitfalls in Implementing a Research Methodology?

What Is a Research Methodology?

Methodology in research is defined as the systematic method to resolve a research problem through data gathering using various techniques, providing an interpretation of data gathered and drawing conclusions about the research data. Essentially, a research methodology is the blueprint of a research or study (Murthy & Bhojanna, 2009, p. 32). As such, the methodology in research proposal is of utmost importance.

Methodology vs. Methods

The confusion between “methodology" and “methods" in research is a common occurrence, especially with the terms sometimes being used interchangeably. Methods and methodology in the context of research refer to two related but different things: method is the technique used in gathering evidence; methodology, on the other hand, “is the underlying theory and analysis of how a research does or should proceed" (Kirsch & Sullivan, 1992, p. 2). Similarly, Birks and Mills (2011, p. 4) define methodology as “a set of principles and ideas that inform the design of a research study." Meanwhile, methods are “practical procedures used to generate and analyze data (Birks and Mills, 2011, p. 4).

To summarize these definitions, methods cover the technical procedures or steps taken to do the research, and methodology provides the underlying reasons why certain methods are used in the process.

How Can a Robust Research Methodology Elevate Your Career Prospects?

A well-developed research methodology not only bolsters the credibility of your academic work but also cultivates a skill set that is highly prized in professional environments. With the increasing demand for analytical and strategic thinking, expertise in designing and executing research projects can serve as a competitive edge in the job market. For instance, proficiency in selecting appropriate methods, justifying methodological choices, and ensuring the reproducibility of results positions you as a valuable candidate for roles that require strong problem-solving abilities and critical analysis. Leveraging these competencies can open doors to advanced career opportunities and high-paying roles; learn more about how to make 100k a year.

How Can Effective Data Management Strengthen Your Research Methodology?

Robust data management practices are essential for enhancing both the transparency and reproducibility of your research. Implementing structured data organization, version control, and rigorous documentation protocols minimizes errors and simplifies replication. Integrating advanced metadata standards and secure archival methods ensures that datasets remain accessible and verifiable over time. This proactive approach not only safeguards the integrity of your findings but also reinforces stakeholder confidence in the research process. For further insights on integrating practical data management strategies into your academic trajectory, explore an associate degree in 6 months online free.

Methodological Approach or Methods Used in Research

Now that you know what is methodology in research, the next step is to identify the different methods used in research. Traditionally, researchers often approach research studies using the methodology research institutions typically use which are two distinct paradigms, namely positivistic and phenomenological (Collis & Hussey, 2013). Also sometimes called qualitative and quantitative (Dumay, 2008), positivistic and phenomenological approaches play a significant role in determining your data-gathering process, especially the methods you are going to use in your research. It is also worth noting that when it comes to primary vs secondary research methods, there are significant differences that you need to consider.

Research methods lay down the foundation of your research. According to Neil McInroy, the chief executive of Centre for Local Economic Strategies, not using the appropriate research methods and design creates “a shaky foundation to any review, evaluation, or future strategy (Macdonald et al., 2008, p. 3). In any type of research, the data you will gather can come either in the form of numbers or descriptions, which means you will either be required to count or converse with people (Macdonald et al., 2008, p. 9). In research, there are two fundamental methods used for either approach—quantitative and qualitative research methods. Even if you take the path of a philosophy career, these are still methods that you may encounter and even use.

Quantitative

This approach is often used by researchers who follow the scientific paradigm (Haq, 2014, p. 1). This method seeks to quantify data and generalize results from a sample of a target population (Macdonald et al., 2008, p. 9). It follows structured data collection methods and processes with data output in the form of numbers. Quantitative research also observes objective analysis using statistical means (Macdonald et al., 2008, p. 9).

Based on a report, quantitative research took the biggest portion of the global market research spend in 2018 (ESOMAR, 2019, page 27).

Qualitative

Unlike the quantitative approach that aims to count things in order to explain what is observed, the qualitative research framework is geared toward creating a complete and detailed description of your observation as a researcher (Macdonald et al., 2008, p. 9). Rather than providing predictions and/or causal explanations, the qualitative method offers contextualization and interpretation of the data gathered. This research method is subjective and requires a smaller number of carefully chosen respondents.

Mixed methods

A contemporary method sprung from the combination of traditional quantitative and qualitative approaches. According to Brannen and Moss (2012), the existence of the mixed methods approach stemmed from its potential to help researchers view social relations and their intricacies clearer by fusing together the quantitative and qualitative methods of research while recognizing the limitations of both at the same time.

Mixed methods are also known for the concept of triangulation in social research. According to Haq (2014, p. 11), triangulation provides researchers with the opportunity to present multiple findings about a single phenomenon by deploying various elements of quantitative and qualitative approaches in one research. This is the kind of method that one may use when studying sleep and academic performance.

How to Justify Your Methodological Choices

Justifying your methodological choices is a critical part of any research project, as it demonstrates the rationale behind how you conducted your study and ensures its credibility. To effectively justify your methodology, you need to clearly explain why you selected particular methods over alternatives, showing that they are the most appropriate for answering your research question.

1. Align your methodological choices with your research objectives

Explain how the chosen methods—whether qualitative, quantitative, or mixed—directly support the type of data you need to collect. For instance, if your research aims to understand personal experiences, qualitative methods like interviews or focus groups would be appropriate. Alternatively, if your focus is on measurable outcomes or statistical relationships, quantitative approaches, such as surveys or experiments, would be more suitable.

2. Provide evidence from existing literature that supports your choices

Cite studies or theoretical frameworks that have successfully used similar methods in comparable contexts. This not only reinforces the validity of your approach but also shows that it builds on established academic practice.

3. Address any limitations or potential biases in your methodology, and explain how you plan to mitigate these

Be transparent about any constraints related to sample size, data collection techniques, or potential external influences that could skew your findings. Additionally, outline specific steps—such as using triangulation, conducting pilot studies, or incorporating control variables—to minimize these risks and ensure the validity of your research. This demonstrates that you have critically assessed the strengths and weaknesses of your methods and are prepared to handle challenges that could affect your results.

Writing Your Research Paper Methodology

Saunders et al. (2007) proposed the concept of the research onion model to help researchers develop a methodology and construct research design techniques within the field of future studies. The characteristic of research onion model is illustrated by its six main layers, which serve as a step-by-step guide for researchers on how to write a research methodology.

The methodology section of your research paper is not all about describing your data gathering process and your analysis. The methodology is about the overall approaches and perspectives of the research process. If you want to study abroad for free and have to present a research proposal to the institution for acceptance, then you have to be able to clearly delineate your analytical methods for your study. Here are some tips as well as problems to avoid in order to write an effective research methodology. Out of these, you can construct your own research methodology example for future reference. While doing so, you can apply research methodology best practices for optimal results.

How to write an effective methodology section?

• Introduce your methods. Introduce the methodological approach used in investigating your research problem. In one of the previous sections, your methodological approach can either be quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods. Look for a methodology in research example that you can use as a reference.
• Establish methodological connection. Explain the relevance of your methodological approach to the overall research design. Keep in mind that the connection between your methods and your research problem should be clear. This means that your methodology of research must be appropriate to achieve your paper’s objective—to address the research problem you presented. To wit, if you need help to write your research problem, refer to our article on what is a research question.
• Introduce your instruments. Indicate the research instruments you are going to use in collecting your data and explain how you are going to use them. These tools and instruments can be your surveys, questionnaires for interviews, observation, etc. If your methods include archival research or analyzing existing data, provide background information for documents, including who the original researcher is, as well as how the data were originally created and gathered. Keep in mind that aside from your methodology in research paper, the identification of the research instrument is equally significant.
• Discuss your analysis. Explain how you are going to analyze the results of your data gathering process. Depending on your methodology, research for ways on how you can best execute your study either by using statistical analysis or exploring theoretical perspectives to support your explanation of observed behaviors.
• Provide background information. When using methods that your readers may be unfamiliar with, make sure to provide background information about these methods. It would also help if you can provide your research methodology meaning so you can present a clear and comprehensive research context.
• Discuss sampling process. Sampling procedures are vital components of your methodology. Explain the reason behind your sampling procedure. For example, if you are using statistics in your research, indicate why you chose this method as well as your sampling procedure. If you are going to do interviews, describe how are you going to choose the participants and how the interviews will be conducted.
• Address research limitations. Make sure to address possible limitations you may encounter in your research, such as practical limitations that may affect your data gathering process. If there are potential issues you anticipate to encounter in the process, indicate your reason why you still decide to use the methodology despite the risk (SHU Library, n.d.).

What to avoid in writing the methodology section of your research?

• Avoid including irrelevant details.
• Keep your methodology section straightforward and thorough. Details that do not contribute to the readers’ understanding of your chosen methods should not be included in your methodology section.
• Irrelevant information includes unnecessary explanations of basic procedures. Basic procedures should only be explained if they are unconventional and unfamiliar to the readers.
• Do not ignore the problems you might encounter during the data gathering process. Instead of turning a blind eye, describe how you handled them (SHU Library, n.d.).

Ethical Considerations

Even in writing a methodology, researchers must adhere to ethical norms to ensure trust, accountability, mutual respect, and fairness (Resnik, 2015). According to Saunders, Lewis, and Thornhill (2003, p. 131), there are some ethical considerations that researchers must be mindful of, especially during the process of gathering and presenting research data:

• The rights to privacy of the individuals involved.
• The nature of participation in the research must be voluntary and the individuals involved must have the right to withdraw partially or completely from the process.
• All participants must provide their consent first.
• Maintenance of the confidentiality of data provided by individuals as well as identifiable participants’ anonymity.
• How participants react to the researchers’ methods in seeking to collect data.
• How the participants will be affected by the way in which data is analyzed and reported.
• The behavior and objectivity of the researcher.

Bridging Research Methodology and Creative Practices

The scope of research methodology often intersects with creative disciplines, offering unique opportunities for exploration and innovation. Particularly, fields like creative writing can benefit from customized research frameworks that address both artistic expression and analytical rigor. For instance, employing a mixed methods approach allows researchers to combine personal narrative analysis with statistical patterns in literary trends, enabling a richer understanding of diverse writing practices. Such methodologies aren't just theoretical exercises—they hold tangible value for practical application in creative pursuits.

For individuals looking to deepen their understanding of creative disciplines within a structured academic environment, pursuing an online creative writing degree can provide the perfect blend of theoretical knowledge and skill-based training. Such programs often integrate nuanced research methodologies, preparing students to analyze and create in ways that align with both traditional and contemporary writing demands.

This bridging of research and creativity demonstrates how methodology, far from being limited to scientific inquiry, can equally empower artistic disciplines—transforming abstract ideas into actionable insights that inform both academic and practical outcomes.

Practical Examples of Methodology in Published Research

Practical Applications of Research Methodology: Case Examples

Understanding research methodology in theory is essential, but seeing its application in real-world research solidifies comprehension. Below are examples of how different methodologies have been employed in published studies across various disciplines:

Example 1: Quantitative Research in Public Health

A quantitative methodology was employed in a study analyzing the relationship between physical activity and heart disease risk among adults. Researchers used a structured survey distributed to 10,000 participants and analyzed the data using logistic regression to identify significant predictors. The use of statistical methods ensured objective insights, while the large sample size enhanced the reliability and generalizability of the findings (Zyphur & Pierides, 2017).

Example 2: Qualitative Research in Education

A qualitative methodology was central to a study exploring teachers' perceptions of technology integration in classrooms. The researchers conducted in-depth interviews with 20 educators across five schools and analyzed the data using thematic analysis. This approach allowed for rich, narrative insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with educational technology (Mills & Birks, 2014).

Example 3: Mixed Methods in Social Sciences

A mixed methods approach was used in research examining the impact of urban green spaces on community well-being. Quantitative data was collected through a survey assessing residents' mental health metrics, while qualitative data was gathered via focus groups exploring personal experiences. Triangulating these methods provided a comprehensive understanding of the issue, balancing statistical trends with individual narratives (Brannen & Moss, 2012).

By studying these examples, researchers can draw inspiration for their projects and gain a clearer understanding of how methodologies translate into actionable research plans.

How Can You Enhance Research Transparency and Reproducibility?

To ensure that your research findings are accessible and verifiable, adopt strategies that promote transparency throughout the entire research process. Clearly document every stage of your study—from data collection protocols and analysis procedures to decision-making processes—so that peers can replicate or build upon your work. Utilize pre-registration of your research design and share data sets via open repositories to further facilitate independent validation. Employ digital tools for version control and maintain detailed logs of updates or modifications to your methodologies. Incorporating supplementary academic training, such as an associate degree in 6 months online, can provide additional insights into implementing innovative data management practices that enhance reproducibility and integrity.

What Are Emerging Trends in Research Methodology?

Research methodologies are evolving in response to rapid digital innovation and interdisciplinary integration. Current trends include the increased use of advanced data visualization tools, automated analytical software, and hybrid frameworks that combine elements of both qualitative and quantitative approaches. In parallel, open science initiatives and digital repositories are promoting enhanced transparency and reproducibility. These trends are complemented by evolving educational platforms that provide streamlined learning pathways, such as 1 year associate degree programs online, which equip researchers with cutting-edge skills to navigate and apply modern methodological practices.

What Role Do Accelerated Programs Play in Enhancing Methodological Expertise?

Accelerated programs provide a concentrated learning environment that sharpens the analytical and decision-making skills required for robust research design. These courses integrate advanced theory with real-world applications, enabling researchers to adopt innovative methodologies swiftly and effectively. Utilizing case studies and hands-on projects, participants enhance their capability to select, justify, and implement research techniques that address complex problems. Complement this expertise with quick degrees that pay well to further align academic training with emerging professional demands.

What Are the Common Pitfalls in Implementing a Research Methodology?

Inadequate alignment between research questions and selected methods can compromise the overall coherence of a study. Researchers sometimes overlook the necessity of piloting data collection tools, leading to unforeseen challenges during implementation. Failing to address potential biases—whether through the data sampling process or analytical interpretation—can undermine the validity of findings. Additionally, insufficient documentation of adaptations made during the research process may hamper reproducibility. For researchers juggling professional responsibilities, seeking support through educational routes such as cheap online universities for working adults can provide practical strategies to enhance methodological consistency and transparency.

Choosing a Research Methodology

It’s now clear that the methodology section is where a researcher indicates and elaborates on the plans that must be put into motion in order to achieve the objective of the research. Being acquainted with research methodologies, however, does not make choosing the appropriate methodology easier. Walker (2006) states that selecting which research methodology is a difficult step in the research process. It can be confusing and overwhelming, especially for novice researchers. Even if you are aiming for a career in the humanities and social sciences, having a clear research methodology is still essential.

According to Holden and Lynch (2004), research should not only be “methodologically led" but the choice of which methodology to use should be consequential not only to the social science phenomenon to be investigated but also to the philosophical stance of the researcher. Similarly, Goulding (2002) claims that the choice of methodology should be based on the researcher’s interests, beliefs, and convictions. Meanwhile, other significant factors such as epistemological concerns must also be taken into consideration when choosing a research methodology (Buchanan & Bryman, 2007). On top of philosophical underpinnings and personal convictions, there are also practical considerations that can affect a researcher’s decision on what methodology to use, including the amount of existing data or knowledge, available time, and other resources (Ahmed et al., 2016, p. 32).

Key Insights

• Purpose of Research: The main goal of research is to seek answers to previously unanswered questions and contribute to the body of knowledge.
• Methodology's Importance: The validity of a study is anchored on the research methodology, which includes the methods used and the principles supporting them.
• Methodology vs. Methods: Methodology refers to the underlying theory and analysis of how research should proceed, while methods are the practical procedures used to gather and analyze data.
• Types of Methodological Approaches:
  • Quantitative: Focuses on quantifying data and generalizing results, using structured methods and statistical analysis.
  • Qualitative: Aims to provide a detailed description and interpretation of observations, using subjective analysis with a smaller sample size.
  • Mixed Methods: Combines quantitative and qualitative approaches to offer a comprehensive understanding of the research problem.
• Writing the Methodology Section:
  • Introduce the methodological approach.
  • Establish the connection between the methodology and the research problem.
  • Describe the research instruments and analysis methods.
  • Provide background information and discuss the sampling process.
  • Address potential research limitations.
• Ethical Considerations: Researchers must ensure privacy, voluntary participation, informed consent, data confidentiality, and the objectivity of the researcher.
• Choosing a Methodology: The choice of methodology should align with the researcher's philosophical stance, interests, and practical considerations such as existing data, time, and resources.

What Are the Best Practices for Ensuring Methodological Rigor?

Ensuring methodological rigor is essential for establishing the credibility and reproducibility of your research. Clearly delineate data collection procedures, analysis techniques, and quality control measures. Emphasize strategies such as pilot testing, triangulation, and the use of control variables to minimize bias and enhance validity without oversimplifying complex phenomena. Compare your approach with established protocols and frameworks, and consider insights from institutions like non profit schools to benchmark your practices against industry standards. Regular evaluation and transparent reporting of methodological steps will sustain the integrity and impact of your research.

FAQ

1. What is the main aim of research?

The main aim of research is to seek answers to previously unanswered questions and contribute to the body of knowledge within a discipline.

2. Why is the research methodology section important?

The research methodology section is crucial because it determines the validity of the study by outlining the methods used to collect and analyze data, and the principles guiding these methods.

3. What is the difference between methodology and methods in research?

Methodology refers to the underlying theory and analysis of how research should proceed, while methods are the practical procedures used to gather and analyze data.

4. What are the main types of research methodologies?

The main types of research methodologies are quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods. Quantitative focuses on numerical data and statistical analysis, qualitative focuses on detailed descriptions and interpretations, and mixed methods combine both approaches.

5. How should one introduce their methodology in a research paper?

Introduce the methodological approach used to investigate the research problem, and ensure the connection between the methods and the research problem is clear and appropriate.

6. What should be included in the discussion of research instruments?

Describe the tools and instruments used to collect data, such as surveys or interviews, and provide background information if using existing data or archival research.

7. Why is discussing the sampling process important in the methodology section?

Discussing the sampling process is important to explain the rationale behind the chosen sample, how participants were selected, and how the sampling method aligns with the research objectives.

8. What ethical considerations must be addressed in the methodology section?

Researchers must address the rights to privacy, voluntary participation, informed consent, data confidentiality, and the impact of data analysis and reporting on participants.

9. How should potential limitations in research be handled?

Potential limitations should be acknowledged and described, including how they might affect the data gathering process and why the chosen methodology was still deemed appropriate despite these limitations.

10. What factors should influence the choice of research methodology?

The choice of research methodology should be influenced by the researcher's philosophical stance, interests, epistemological concerns, and practical considerations such as existing data, time, and resources.

References

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Methodological Approach or Methods Used in Research