RESEARCH VOCABULARY

Hypothesis: A proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation.

Sentence: The scientist developed a hypothesis to explain the unusual results in her experiment.

Data: Facts and statistics collected for reference or analysis.

Sentence: The researchers analyzed the data from over 1,000 participants.

Methodology: A system of methods used in a particular area of study or activity.

Sentence: The paper outlines the study’s methodology in detail to allow replication.

Variable: Any factor, trait, or condition that can exist in differing amounts or types.

Sentence: The temperature was an independent variable in the experiment.

Peer-reviewed: Evaluated by other experts in the same field before publication.

Sentence: The study was published in a peer-reviewed journal, ensuring its credibility.

Literature Review: A survey of scholarly sources on a particular topic.

Sentence: The literature review highlighted gaps in previous research.

Findings: The results or conclusions reached after research or investigation.

Sentence: The findings revealed a strong correlation between sleep and memory.

Survey: A method of gathering information from individuals, usually through questionnaires.

Sentence: The team conducted a survey to understand public opinion on climate change.

Conclusion: The final part of a study that summarizes the results and implications.

Sentence: The conclusion confirmed the initial hypothesis was correct.

Significance: The quality of being worthy of attention; statistical importance.

Sentence: The results were statistically significant at the 0.05 level.