Research results in your bachelor thesis
In your bachelor thesis, the research results are used to answer your research questions and test your hypotheses. Here you will learn how to present these results clearly and precisely.
What belongs in the results section?
The results section serves to present the collected data of your research. You describe the data without interpreting it. Every number, graphic or observation should be clearly related to your research questions and hypotheses.
- Present your data objectively and without judgment.
- Use diagrams and tables to present your results clearly.
- Assign your results to the respective research questions and hypotheses.
- Refrain from interpreting the results - this will follow later in the discussion section.
Quantitative research results
If your research is quantitative, you work with statistical data that you have obtained using surveys, measurements or experiments. You should present these results systematically according to hypotheses or sub-questions and support them visually.
- Use descriptive statistics to illustrate the results (e.g. averages, standard deviations).
- Structure the results according to hypotheses or research questions.
- Use tables and graphs to present your data clearly.
Example: You conducted a survey among students to find out how many of them prefer online courses. In your sample of 300 participants, it turned out that 65% of the students prefer online courses to face-to-face courses. The results also show that younger students (18-25 years) react particularly positively to digital learning formats.
Qualitative research results
Qualitative results often come from interviews, observations or open questions. These results should be thematically structured and described in detail, without direct interpretation.
- Summarize recurring themes and patterns.
- Use direct quotes to support your statements.
- Organize the results logically by relevance or topic.
Example: In a qualitative study, you conducted interviews with lecturers to learn their views on online teaching methods. A lecturer said: "Online teaching allows more flexibility for students, but I miss the direct interaction in the classroom." Such statements can be used in your results section to show opinions and trends.
To note
- Use the past tense to represent completed results.
- Do not include new data or studies – focus on your own results.
- Stick to a clear structure and order to make the results section clear.