Research terminology

20 Research Terminology Words with Meanings and Examples

1. Primary Source: A first-hand account or original document.

• Example: A diary entry from a historical figure is a primary source.

2. Secondary Source: A document that interprets or analyzes primary sources.

• Example: A textbook that discusses the Civil War is a secondary source.

3. Peer Review: The evaluation of work by experts in the same field.

• Example: Before publication, research articles undergo peer review.

4. Methodology: The system of methods used in a particular field of study.

• Example: The researcher described the methodology used for data collection.

5. Hypothesis: A proposed explanation for a phenomenon that can be tested.

• Example: The scientist formulated a hypothesis about the effects of climate change.

6. Variable: A quantity that can change or vary.

• Example: The independent variable in the experiment was the amount of fertilizer used.

7. Data: Facts and statistics collected together for analysis.

• Example: The data analysis revealed a significant increase in sales during the holiday season.

8. Correlation: A relationship or connection between two or more things.

• Example: The study found a strong correlation between education level and income.

9. Causation: The act of causing something to happen.

• Example: The scientist aimed to prove causation between smoking and lung cancer.

10. Sample: A subset of a population used to represent the whole.

• Example: The researcher surveyed a random sample of 1000 people.

11. Reliability: The consistency and accuracy of a measurement or result.

• Example: The study used a reliable questionnaire to collect data.

12. Validity: The extent to which a measurement or result reflects what it is intended to measure.

• Example: The researcher ensured the validity of the experiment by controlling for extraneous variables.

13. Bias: A systematic error in judgment or measurement.

• Example: The researcher was aware of the potential for bias in their study and took steps to minimize it.

14. Literature Review: A comprehensive survey of existing research on a topic.

• Example: The student conducted a literature review to identify gaps in knowledge.

15. Citation: A reference to a published work.

• Example: The researcher cited several academic articles to support their argument.

16. Plagiarism: The act of taking credit for someone else’s work.

• Example: The student avoided plagiarism by properly citing their sources.

17. Research Design: A plan for conducting research, including the methods and procedures.

• Example: The research design included a pre-test, post-test, and control group.

18. Data Analysis: The process of examining data to identify patterns and trends.

• Example: The researcher used statistical software to analyze the data.

19. Conclusion: A summary of the main findings of a research study.

• Example: The conclusion of the study supported the hypothesis.

20. Ethical Considerations: The moral principles that guide research.

• Example: The researcher obtained informed consent from participants and ensured their privacy.