Analysis begins before Chapter 4
A defensible analysis plan should be established in the proposal. After data collection, follow the approved plan and document justified changes according to university and IRB requirements.
Qualitative analysis
Qualitative analysis may involve coding, categorization, pattern identification, thematic development, or design-specific procedures. Maintain a transparent path from raw evidence to interpretations and address credibility or trustworthiness using appropriate strategies.
Quantitative analysis
Quantitative analysis should map statistical procedures to research questions or hypotheses. Report descriptive and inferential results as required, check relevant assumptions, and avoid interpreting statistical significance as practical importance without context.
Chapter 4: report findings
- Organize results around the research questions.
- Describe the sample or data set appropriately.
- Present evidence clearly and accurately.
- Use tables or figures only when they improve understanding.
- Avoid introducing unsupported conclusions.
Chapter 5: interpret and connect
Discussion moves beyond reporting. Connect findings to prior literature and the framework, explain implications, acknowledge limitations, and identify realistic recommendations for practice or future research.