The results section of a research study begins with a narrative of the study findings. The narrative should restate the hypotheses and research questions and provide a broad overview of the findings to prepare the reader for the information to follow. Demographic information is often provided here to contextualize the results for the reader. Past tense is used in the results section since the study has already been conducted by this point in the research process. This narrative, like the remainder of the results section, should present purely factual information. This is not the portion of the study where opinions or interpretations are presented. This section presents purely observable information.

Next, a description of the data collected is given. From a purely factual vantage point, state what the collected data displays. In quantitative studies, note which statistical tests were performed and state the results of those tests.  For qualitative studies, state observable phenomena and germane points of interest. In all cases, be as factual and concise as possible. Avoid vague generalizations. From an ethical perspective, it is important to report negative findings as well; as positive ones.

Research findings should, where applicable, be supported by graphs and charts. Graphs and charts may be placed anywhere throughout the results section to bring visual emphasis to important ideas. These are particularly useful in providing visual support for demographic information and statistical results. Be sure to follow APA style (or the preferred style of your discipline and institution) when inserting and identifying graphs and charts. Avoid redundancy with regard to the reporting of results; once the information is stated, move on to the next idea.

The final component of the results section is the analysis of the data. Use the gathered data to answer the research questions and address the study hypotheses. Interpret statistics for the reader identifying points of significance or insignificance. In qualitative studies, identify recurring themes and ideas, but do not pass judgment or interpret the observations. Interpretation will be addressed in the Conclusion of the study.

A well-crafted results section of an empirical study will provide the reader with a good understanding of the factual results of the study without providing interpretation of those results.