A research paper consists of standard structure of which includes introduction, literature review, methodology, discussions and conclusion chapters. Most often, scholars assume that the discussion and the conclusion section are one and the same. But in reality, they are no way similar to each other.
Simply said, discussion section, included after the methodology section but prior to conclusion section explains the key results. This chapter relates back directly to the research question included in the introduction, and contextualises the findings within the literature that has been covered in the literature review. A standard discussion section must be engaging, and should include the information such as : (a) the major results of the study, (b) the meaning of those findings, (c) how these results relate to other existing findings in your study area, (d) limitations of the findings, and (e) suggestions for future research. Need some help in writing this chapter. Talk to expert writers offering discussion chapter writing help.
Many scholars confuse the details that needs to be included in the discussion chapter with the information that is to be included in the conclusion section. One of the effective ways to avoid this confusion considering the conclusion as a brief summary of concepts incorporated in all other sections within the research paper. In the conclusion chapter you must remind the reader of what they have read. Here you have to: (a) restate your hypothesis or research question, (b) restate the crucial findings, (c) explain the contributions of your study, (d) highlight limitations of your study, and (e) state future recommendations.
In addition to the aspects mentioned above, there are certain elements that must be followed and avoided while writing the discussion and conclusion chapter. Some of the do’s and don’ts that need to be considered while writing these two sections are:
- Discussion chapter –
- Use active voice whenever possible. Look out for wordy phrases, and ensure your points are clearly explained. Use of the first person (only if necessary).
- Organise the discussion to address experiments for which you have presented findings.
- Do not include any new and irrelevant findings.
- Conclusion chapter –
- Do transition into the conclusion paragraph. Your reader must know that you are talking about throughout the paper merely by looking at the conclusion section. Use transition words/phrases to cue the reader to the end.
- Maintain the tone of the writing. Do not use subjective or an overly emotional, appeal at the end. However, if you have included few emotional pieces, then do not include facts or statistics as it will confuse the reader.
- Don’t reuse the research statement. Writing conclusion paragraph involves restating the research statement. However, ensure that you don’t rewrite the same statement.
Now that you know how the major differences between the two chapters, roll your sleeves and start with the writing process. If you are not confident with writing your chapters, especially discussion one, take help from expert writers delivering discussion chapter writing help