ThezisHow to write a results section: organize findings, tables, and figures
A results section gives the reader the evidence produced by your study. The discussion explains why that evidence matters. Some disciplines combine them, so follow the required format—but keep reporting and interpretation distinguishable.
Order results by the question, not the spreadsheet
Choose an order that helps a reader answer the research question. That may be by hypothesis, theme, time period, or participant group. A sequence of every output your software produced makes the reader do the organizing work. APA Style: Reporting results
Question 1: What patterns appeared in the survey? → Table 1 gives the distribution. Question 2: Did patterns differ by commuter status? → Figure 1 compares the groups. Question 3: How did interviewees explain the pattern? → Three themes, each with a short supporting excerpt.
This is a structure, not a required outline. Use the reporting conventions of your field.
Let each table or figure do one job
| Element | Should do | Should not do |
|---|---|---|
| Table | Give exact values a reader may compare | Repeat the table cell by cell in prose. |
| Figure | Make a pattern or relationship visible | Carry labels too small to read or hide the relevant denominator. |
| Prose | Tell the reader what to notice and where | Interpret causes before the discussion section. |
Report inconvenient and null results accurately. ‘No statistically significant difference was detected’ does not mean the groups are identical. Describe the estimate and uncertainty in the way your method and discipline require. American Statistical Association