Quantitative research reports are based on statistical evidence gathered by conducting laboratory experiments or observational studies of human behavior in natural settings. They most often take the form of an experimental or lab report.

Experimental Report - Start with a specific question to guide your study. Once you have a specific question in mind, formulate a hypothesis (an educated guess that answers your research question).  Develop an experimental study that answers your research question with numerical data. Compare the results with your original hypothesis.

• Gathering Information
• General Tips
• Sections of Quantitative Research Report

Ways to Gather Information for a Quantitative Research Report

• Observation

• Interview

• Questionnaire

• Laboratory Experiments

General Tips for Writing a Quantitative Research Report

• Use summary and synthesis to explain key theories and strategies.

• Use analysis to write about the issue and its proposed solution.

• Use analogy to explain unfamiliar or unclear ideas.

• Define key terms relevant to the report.

• Use “I” and other first person pronouns when reporting on your own experiences and reactions.

• Use the conventions of the writing style (ex. APA).

Basic Sections of a Quantitative Research Report

• Introduction

• State a research question.

• Discuss the importance or relevance of your research question.

• Provide a review of relevant past studies.

• State a hypothesis.

• Discuss relevant theories.

• Method and Data (this section is often broken down by the following subheadings)

• “Subjects” – Describe the group(s) or individual(s) involved in the study.

• “Research Design and Protocol” – Explain in detail the methods and tools (such as questionnaires) used in the study so that others may repeat the same procedures.

• “Follow-Up” – Continued observation of participants after study is completed.

• “Analysis” – Present and interpret the numerical data produced by the study.

• Results and Discussion

• Describe the results of the study.

• Analyze and comment on the results of the study (Use direct quotes when appropriate).

• Conclusions

• Summarize findings.

• Present relevance of findings.

• Review the hypothesis or claim made in the introduction.

• References

• Cite all sources used in the final report.

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