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A Complete Guide to Forming a Research Paper Discussion

Published by Ellie Cross at October 25th, 2024 , Revised On October 29, 2024

Writing a comprehensive research paper is not an easy task. It requires complete focus and grip on presenting arguments with supporting references from credible research sources like journal articles, books, conference papers , and so on.

The discussion part of a research paper enhances the reader’s understanding because it contains the analysis of the information presented in the literature review , introduction, results and findings sections . Most of the students struggle to write perfectly crafted analysis content in the paper due to unfamiliarity with the right steps.

They usually mix the elements of the conclusion and discussion section, resulting in unstructured or ineffective sentences being outlined in the discussion & analysis section. Some research studies contain discussion & analysis content in one section to comprehensively form a study.

What is the Purpose of a Discussion Section?

The discussion section is meant to contextualise the whole content of the research paper into one comprehensive section. It provides the overall picture of the sections written up to the literature review or introduction in the form of a portion containing interpretation, analysis, and explanation.

The discussion section of the paper tells why the results are important and where they fit in the current literature while discussing the limitations of the study as well.

Things to Avoid While Writing the Discussion Portion of a Research Paper

Students, while writing dissertations or SCI papers , usually make some mistakes when writing the discussion section of the study. It has been observed that they usually mix the elements of the conclusion or other sections with the discussion & analysis portion.

Make sure to consider the below points to avoid making errors in your research study.

Rewriting the Results Section

Students usually write the sentences of the results and findings section in this particular section due to lack of guidance and make this portion subtle for the readers to land straight to the point. You should provide the interpretation and analysis of the arguments discussed above instead of presenting a fruitless summary.

Drawing Conclusions without References

Researchers mistakenly draw the conclusions in this section without presenting the supporting arguments placed in the literature review of the study. Try to remain within the demarcations that you have drawn before starting to write, and only back up your evidence with the data being used.

Adding New Information

Don’t confuse your paper by presenting the new pieces of information in the discussion section. If you have something really important to tell your audience, use the results or findings section instead. The discussion section is only limited to encompassing the data already presented in the above sections.

Selective Addition of Results

There are chances that you may get some results and findings that are not in accordance with your research questions or aims outlined in the introduction portion. It’s totally fine to get the results apart from the expectations.

The research paper discussion section is the place to only discuss why or how this may have happened to present the favouring evidence in your research paper.

Avoid Undermining Your Research

Try not to overemphasise the limitations or weaknesses present in your study because it weakens the credibility of your content. Discuss the limitations in the content that strengthens your credibility instead of raising questions on it.

How to Write a Discussion in a Research Paper?

The most common question that we have received at ResearchProspect from students of all study levels, undergraduate, master, PhD, is how to write a discussion in a research paper. It seems that students associated with the different fields of research studies lack the skill of putting the arguments in a structured way to convince their readers.

That’s why after consulting the top researchers of the whole world, we have devised some chronological steps that are easy to follow for every student. Make sure to use the below steps while writing the discussion section of a research paper.

Concisely Present Key Findings

Start your research paper discussion section by presenting your research problems and major findings concisely in your paper. Try not to just repeat the data presented above instead, aim for a clear statement that directly answers your main research questions.

Don’t write more than one paragraph and precisely evaluate the findings and discussions to not blend elements of the conclusion and discussions section.

Present Interpretations of Findings in Context

It is obvious that the results you are trying to derive from your research study may seem quite clear to you, but the case is not for all the readers. That’s why, try to present your interpretations based on the type of research methodology you have used.

You can use this section to base your whole idea around the key findings in relation to the literature review to show the larger image of your research study to the audience new to this concept or field of study.

Discuss Future Implications of Research

After discussing the key findings, you can jump on to the future implications present in your study. Highlight the ideas that readers can use for conducting further studies based on your research paper.

You need to ask yourself some questions, like what new information has been deduced from the results or findings section. Ensure to discuss the results or findings in line with your research questions or not to open the door for non relevant studies.

Highlight Limitations

It has been observed that every research study contains some limitations, either in research gaps being addressed or in research questions left out from being discussed. It helps you to strengthen the credibility of your research study.

Remember that limitations are not simply a list of mistakes or errors present in the paper. Instead it helps the readers to view the content in a wider picture. Make sure to only list down the limitations directly related to your topic of discussion or research aims that you want to achieve.

Highlight Areas of Potential Research (Recommendations)

Present concrete ideas for future work and pinpoint the areas where there is a need to conduct further research studies. Make sure to provide a stepping stone to the coming researchers to make them able to build arguments on areas that your own research paper was unable to address.

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What is the Difference Between Discussion and Conclusion Section in a Research Paper?

The conclusion holds the precise summary of the arguments or data presented in the whole paper to provide a recap of the whole journey in a few paragraphs. On the other hand, the discussion section is the thorough examination of results being interpreted to discuss how or why they are the way they are.

Moreover, the research paper discussion section is also used to highlight the limitations of the study or pinpoint research gaps for future implications. All in all, it is a meaningful section presenting the implications with a detailed discussion.

How Can the Main Points of the Discussion Section be Constructed?

Generally, the discussion section of the research paper should not be more than 6 to 7 paragraphs in accordance with the length of the introduction, literature review, results, and methodology section. Make sure to divide the portion into 3 separate paragraphs: introductory, intermediate, and concluding paragraph.

The introduction paragraph must contain the reason behind conducting the research studies, and the intermediate paragraph must present the issue with solutions being addressed, implications of future research, recommendations for future studies, and how the paper under observation solves specific issues to be discussed in the conclusion portion.

Writing a dissertation study or a term paper requires a lot of focus or a firm grip on the concepts of the research study in the best manner to make it readable or beneficial for the user. The art of putting the right words in the right place increases the credibility of the arguments being presented.

You must learn this art to write perfectly the research paper discussion section for conducting the perfect research study. If you are stuck halfway through writing the discussion part of your research paper, you can consult our experts to complete the study on time so that you won’t miss the submission deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ideal length of the discussion section in a research paper.

The ideal length of a discussion section written in the research paper is 6 to 7 paragraphs in accordance with the above sections written in the study. Remember there is no defined length for the researchers to follow the above formula is general to follow. 

Can I get a discussion template for a research paper?

To get a discussion template for a research paper, make sure to contact us and get a perfectly crafted structure from our expert research paper writers for absolutely free.

Is there any difference between the discussion and results section?

Yes, there is a minor difference between the discussion and results section of the research paper as one presents the precise summary of the whole data being presented and the other presents the thorough examination of the results being analysed and interpreted.

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The discussion section of a research paper is where the author analyzes and explains the importance of the study's results. It presents the conclusions drawn from the study, compares them to previous research, and addresses any potential limitations or weaknesses. The discussion section should also suggest areas for future research.

Everything is not that complicated if you know where to find the required information. We’ll tell you everything there is to know about writing your discussion. Our easy guide covers all important bits, including research questions and your research results. Do you know how all enumerated events are connected? Well, you will after reading this guide we’ve prepared for you!

What Is in the Discussion Section of a Research Paper

The discussion section of a research paper can be viewed as something similar to the conclusion of your paper. But not literal, of course. It’s an ultimate section where you can talk about the findings of your study. Think about these questions when writing:

• Did you answer all of the promised research questions?
• Did you mention why your work matters?
• What are your findings, and why should anyone even care?
• Does your study have a literature review?

So, answer your questions, provide proof, and don’t forget about your promises from the introduction. 

How to Write a Discussion Section in 5 Steps

How to write the discussion section of a research paper is something everyone googles eventually. It's just life. But why not make everything easier? In brief, this section we’re talking about must include all following parts:

• Answers for research questions
• Literature review
• Results of the work
• Limitations of one’s study
• Overall conclusion

Indeed, all those parts may confuse anyone. So by looking at our guide, you'll save yourself some hassle.  P.S. All our steps are easy and explained in detail! But if you are looking for the most efficient solution, consider using professional help. Leave your “ write my research paper for me ” order at StudyCrumb and get a customized study tailored to your requirements.

Step 1. Start Strong: Discussion Section of a Research Paper

First and foremost, how to start the discussion section of a research paper? Here’s what you should definitely consider before settling down to start writing:

• All essays or papers must begin strong. All readers will not wait for any writer to get to the point. We advise summarizing the paper's main findings.
• Moreover, you should relate both discussion and literature review to what you have discovered. Mentioning that would be a plus too.
• Make sure that an introduction or start per se is clear and concise. Word count might be needed for school. But any paper should be understandable and not too diluted.

Step 2. Answer the Questions in Your Discussion Section of a Research Paper

Writing the discussion section of a research paper also involves mentioning your questions. Remember that in your introduction, you have promised your readers to answer certain questions. Well, now it’s a perfect time to finally give the awaited answer. You need to explain all possible correlations between your findings, research questions, and literature proposed. You already had hypotheses. So were they correct, or maybe you want to propose certain corrections? Section’s main goal is to avoid open ends. It’s not a story or a fairytale with an intriguing ending. If you have several questions, you must answer them. As simple as that.

Step 3. Relate Your Results in a Discussion Section

Writing a discussion section of a research paper also requires any writer to explain their results. You will undoubtedly include an impactful literature review. However, your readers should not just try and struggle with understanding what are some specific relationships behind previous studies and your results.  Your results should sound something like: “This guy in their paper discovered that apples are green. Nevertheless, I have proven via experimentation and research that apples are actually red.” Please, don’t take these results directly. It’s just an initial hypothesis. But what you should definitely remember is any practical implications of your study. Why does it matter and how can anyone use it? That’s the most crucial question.

Step 4. Describe the Limitations in Your Discussion Section

Discussion section of a research paper isn’t limitless. What does that mean? Essentially, it means that you also have to discuss any limitations of your study. Maybe you had some methodological inconsistencies. Possibly, there are no particular theories or not enough information for you to be entirely confident in one’s conclusions.  You might say that an available source of literature you have studied does not focus on one’s issue. That’s why one’s main limitation is theoretical. However, keep in mind that your limitations must possess a certain degree of relevancy. You can just say that you haven’t found enough books. Your information must be truthful to research.

Step 5. Conclude Your Discussion Section With Recommendations

Your last step when you write a discussion section in a paper is its conclusion, like in any other academic work. Writer’s conclusion must be as strong as their starting point of the overall work. Check out our brief list of things to know about the conclusion in research paper :

• It must present its scientific relevance and importance of your work.
• It should include different implications of your research.
• It should not, however, discuss anything new or things that you have not mentioned before.
• Leave no open questions and carefully complete the work without them.

Discussion Section of a Research Paper Example

All the best example discussion sections of a research paper will be written according to our brief guide. Don’t forget that you need to state your findings and underline the importance of your work. An undoubtedly big part of one’s discussion will definitely be answering and explaining the research questions. In other words, you’ll already have all the knowledge you have so carefully gathered. Our last step for you is to recollect and wrap up your paper. But we’re sure you’ll succeed!

How to Write a Discussion Section: Final Thoughts

Today we have covered how to write a discussion section. That was quite a brief journey, wasn’t it? Just to remind you to focus on these things:

• Importance of your study.
• Summary of the information you have gathered.
• Main findings and conclusions.
• Answers to all research questions without an open end.
• Correlation between literature review and your results.

But, wait, this guide is not the only thing we can do. Looking for how to write an abstract for a research paper  for example? We have such a blog and much more on our platform.

Our academic writing service is just a click away. We are proud to say that our writers are professionals in their fields. Buy a research paper and our experts can provide prompt solutions without compromising the quality.

Discussion Section of a Research Paper: Frequently Asked Questions

1. how long should the discussion section of a research paper be.

Our discussion section of a research paper should not be longer than other sections. So try to keep it short but as informative as possible. It usually contains around 6-7 paragraphs in length. It is enough to briefly summarize all the important data and not to drag it.

2. What's the difference between the discussion and the results?

The difference between discussion and results is very simple and easy to understand. The results only report your main findings. You stated what you have found and how you have done that. In contrast, one’s discussion mentions your findings and explains how they relate to other literature, research questions, and one’s hypothesis. Therefore, it is not only a report but an efficient as well as proper explanation.

3. What's the difference between a discussion and a conclusion?

The difference between discussion and conclusion is also quite easy. Conclusion is a brief summary of all the findings and results. Still, our favorite discussion section interprets and explains your main results. It is an important but more lengthy and wordy part. Besides, it uses extra literature for references.

4. What is the purpose of the discussion section?

The primary purpose of a discussion section is to interpret and describe all your interesting findings. Therefore, you should state what you have learned, whether your hypothesis was correct and how your results can be explained using other sources. If this section is clear to readers, our congratulations as you have succeeded.

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6 Steps to Write an Excellent Discussion in Your Manuscript

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The discussion section in scientific manuscripts might be the last few paragraphs, but its role goes far beyond wrapping up. It’s the part of an article where scientists talk about what they found and what it means, where raw data turns into meaningful insights. Therefore, discussion is a vital component of the article.  

An excellent discussion is well-organized. We bring to you authors a classic 6-step method for writing discussion sections, with examples to illustrate the functions and specific writing logic of each step. Take a look at how you can impress journal reviewers with a concise and focused discussion section!  

Discussion frame structure   

Conventionally, a discussion section has three parts: an introductory paragraph, a few intermediate paragraphs, and a conclusion¹.  Please follow the steps below:  

1.Introduction—mention gaps in previous research¹⁻ ²

Here, you orient the reader to your study. In the first paragraph, it is advisable to mention the research gap your paper addresses.  

Example: This study investigated the cognitive effects of a meat-only diet on adults. While earlier studies have explored the impact of a carnivorous diet on physical attributes and agility, they have not explicitly addressed its influence on cognitively intense tasks involving memory and reasoning.  

2. Summarizing key findings—let your data speak ¹⁻ ²

After you have laid out the context for your study, recapitulate some of its key findings. Also, highlight key data and evidence supporting these findings.  

Example: We found that risk-taking behavior among teenagers correlates with their tendency to invest in cryptocurrencies. Risk takers in this study, as measured by the Cambridge Gambling Task, tended to have an inordinately higher proportion of their savings invested as crypto coins.  

3. Interpreting results—compare with other papers¹⁻²    

Here, you must analyze and interpret any results concerning the research question or hypothesis. How do the key findings of your study help verify or disprove the hypothesis? What practical relevance does your discovery have?  

Example: Our study suggests that higher daily caffeine intake is not associated with poor performance in major sporting events. Athletes may benefit from the cardiovascular benefits of daily caffeine intake without adversely impacting performance.    

Remember, unlike the results section, the discussion ideally focuses on locating your findings in the larger body of existing research. Hence, compare your results with those of other peer-reviewed papers.  

Example: Although Miller et al. (2020) found evidence of such political bias in a multicultural population, our findings suggest that the bias is weak or virtually non-existent among politically active citizens.  

4. Addressing limitations—their potential impact on the results¹⁻²    

Discuss the potential impact of limitations on the results. Most studies have limitations, and it is crucial to acknowledge them in the intermediary paragraphs of the discussion section. Limitations may include low sample size, suspected interference or noise in data, low effect size, etc.  

Example: This study explored a comprehensive list of adverse effects associated with the novel drug ‘X’. However, long-term studies may be needed to confirm its safety, especially regarding major cardiac events.  

5. Implications for future research—how to explore further¹⁻²    

Locate areas of your research where more investigation is needed. Concluding paragraphs of the discussion can explain what research will likely confirm your results or identify knowledge gaps your study left unaddressed.  

Example: Our study demonstrates that roads paved with the plastic-infused compound ‘Y’ are more resilient than asphalt. Future studies may explore economically feasible ways of producing compound Y in bulk.  

6. Conclusion—summarize content¹⁻²    

A good way to wind up the discussion section is by revisiting the research question mentioned in your introduction. Sign off by expressing the main findings of your study.  

Example: Recent observations suggest that the fish ‘Z’ is moving upriver in many parts of the Amazon basin. Our findings provide conclusive evidence that this phenomenon is associated with rising sea levels and climate change, not due to elevated numbers of invasive predators.  

A rigorous and concise discussion section is one of the keys to achieving an excellent paper. It serves as a critical platform for researchers to interpret and connect their findings with the broader scientific context. By detailing the results, carefully comparing them with existing research, and explaining the limitations of this study, you can effectively help reviewers and readers understand the entire research article more comprehensively and deeply¹⁻² , thereby helping your manuscript to be successfully published and gain wider dissemination.  

In addition to keeping this writing guide, you can also use Elsevier Language Services to improve the quality of your paper more deeply and comprehensively. We have a professional editing team covering multiple disciplines. With our profound disciplinary background and rich polishing experience, we can significantly optimize all paper modules including the discussion, effectively improve the fluency and rigor of your articles, and make your scientific research results consistent, with its value reflected more clearly. We are always committed to ensuring the quality of papers according to the standards of top journals, improving the publishing efficiency of scientific researchers, and helping you on the road to academic success. Check us out here !  

Type in wordcount for Standard Total: USD EUR JPY Follow this link if your manuscript is longer than 12,000 words. Upload  

References:   

• Masic, I. (2018). How to write an efficient discussion? Medical Archives , 72(3), 306. https://doi.org/10.5455/medarh.2018.72.306-307  
• Şanlı, Ö., Erdem, S., & Tefik, T. (2014). How to write a discussion section? Urology Research & Practice , 39(1), 20–24. https://doi.org/10.5152/tud.2013.049  

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Research Paper Discussion Section

How to Write a Discussion For a Research Paper | Objectives, Steps & Examples

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Published on: Mar 6, 2024

Last updated on: Oct 28, 2024

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As a critical component of scholarly writing, the discussion serves as the intellectual heart of your work. It provides a platform to interpret findings, draw conclusions, and engage with existing literature. 

In this guide, we will cover the primary objectives of the discussion, outline the essential steps for writing, and provide insightful examples. Learning how to write a discussion is key to elevating the impact of your research conclusion.

Follow along as we break down the complexities and offer valuable insights to ensure your discussion section meets the highest standards!

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What is the Discussion Section in Research?

The discussion section of a research paper is where the author interprets the results, contextualizes findings within the existing literature and engages in thoughtful analysis. 

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), the discussion is the space for reflection, providing a bridge between the results and the overall conclusion.  

The discussion section typically follows the results section but precedes the conclusion . 

People may sometimes confuse discussions and conclusions sections. While the conclusion summarizes key points, the discussion section interprets and analyzes the results in detail. The discussion goes beyond summarization, offering a deeper understanding of the study's implications and contributing to the scholarly conversation.

Elements of Discussion Section

The discussion section in a research paper comprises the following key elements:

• Summary : What are the main findings in a nutshell?
• Interpretations : How do you explain your results?
• Implications : Why are your findings important in the broader context?
• Limitations : What are the constraints in your methodology or data?
• Recommendations : What future studies or improvements arise from your outcomes?

Main Objectives of Discussion Section

The primary objectives of the discussion section include:

• To interpret the research findings accurately and comprehensively.
• To place the study in the broader context of existing literature.
• To engage in critical thinking and analysis of the results.
• To communicate the significance and implications of the study effectively.

How To Structure a Discussion

Follow these steps to draft a well-organized and effective discussion:

Now that you have a clear structure of your discussion section let’s move on to the writing phase. 

The steps below will help you write an effective research paper discussion section:

Step 1: Summarize your Results

Start the discussion section by providing a brief reintroduction to your research question or hypothesis. This serves to set the stage for the discussion, reminding readers of the study's primary focus.

Next, proceed to summarize your results. Offer a concise overview of the main findings, highlighting the most relevant outcomes of your research. This lays the groundwork for the subsequent interpretation and analysis.

Step 2: Provide Interpretations

In this step, highlight why your findings matter and how they enhance our understanding of the research area. Use a mix of qualitative and quantitative techniques to comprehensively interpret results.

Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Explain the correlation, patterns, and relationships in your data. 
• Quantify these relations and clarify how they contribute to your study's understanding.
• Assess if your results align with expectations and whether they support or challenge existing theories.
• Relate your interpretations to past research and established theories, showcasing their challenges to existing knowledge. 
• If there are unexpected results, thoroughly explain them, explore reasons, and discuss their implications for the topic.

Organize your interpretations around themes, hypotheses, or research questions for a focused and structured discussion. Structure your interpretations based on the significance of findings or unexpected results to guide the reader through the crucial aspects of your study.

Step 3: Unpack the Implications

Unpacking the implications involves relating your findings to scholarly work. Discuss how your study aligns with or deviates from previous research from your literature review. It will showcase the academic context of your contributions.

Answer these questions:

• Do your results confirm or contest existing theories? If supporting, what fresh insights do they bring? If challenging, what could be the reasons?
• Are there practical applications of your findings?

Step 4: Discuss the Limitation

Limitations refer to factors that could potentially impact the accuracy, reliability, or scope of your study. They are aspects that were beyond your control or constraints within the research design.

Common Sources of Limitations

Limitations may arise due to various factors, such as the study's methodology, sample size, data collection tools, or external influences. Identifying these limitations is a crucial aspect of maintaining transparency in research.

How to Mention Limitations in the Discussion Section 

Even the most well-conducted studies have limitations. Mentioning these limitations will enhance your research paper's credibility: 

• Clearly and honestly state the limitations of your study. Transparency builds credibility and demonstrates a thoughtful approach to the research process.
• If there were limitations in your methodology (e.g., small sample size, survey design), discuss how these constraints might have affected the study's outcomes.
• If data collection presented challenges (e.g., limited access, response bias), explain how these issues might have impacted the reliability of your results.
• Acknowledge external factors beyond your control that might have influenced the study. This could include unforeseen events, changing societal norms, or evolving technologies.

Highlight limitations directly influencing your research problem or question for a concise and relevant discussion.

Step 5: Offer Recommendations

Having discussed the findings and limitations, it's now time to provide recommendations. These suggestions should arise from the insights gained during the study and serve as a guide for future studies.

How to Offer Recommendations

To offer recommendations keep in view the following points: 

• Base your recommendations on the insights discussed earlier. Consider what gaps or unanswered questions remain.
• If applicable, recommend ways to address the limitations discussed in the study. Propose methodologies or approaches that could enhance future research.
• Relate recommendations to practical applications whenever possible. Consider how future studies could provide actionable insights for real-world scenarios.
• Offer tangible suggestions for further research. Provide clear directions and highlight specific variables, populations, or contexts that warrant exploration.

Discussion Writing Tips - DO'S &  DONT'S

Here are some important tips to consider and some common mistakes to avoid when writing a discussion section for your research paper: 

• DO ensure that every point in your discussion directly relates back to your research questions or hypotheses. This maintains focus and relevance.
• DO prioritize clarity in your writing. Use concise and straightforward language to communicate complex ideas, making them accessible to a broad audience.
• DO acknowledge potential counterarguments or alternative explanations. This demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the topic and adds depth to your discussion.
• DO use concrete examples to illustrate your points. This helps readers grasp the practical implications of your findings and enhances the overall understanding.
• DO provide actionable recommendations for future studies. Give researchers clear directions and ideas for expanding on your work, contributing to the advancement of the field.
• DON'T introduce new information in the discussion. Stick to summarizing, interpreting, and discussing the results obtained in the study without adding fresh data or concepts.
• DON'T overgeneralize your findings. Be cautious not to make sweeping statements beyond the scope of your study or without sufficient evidence.
• DON'T ignore or downplay limitations. Be transparent about the constraints of your study, acknowledging potential biases or areas where improvements could be made.
• DON'T use jargon unnecessarily. While some field-specific terminology is essential, avoid excessive technical language that might confuse readers who are not familiar with the subject.
• DON'T rush the conclusion of your discussion. Take the time to craft a thoughtful and conclusive summary that encapsulates the key takeaways and implications of your study.

Discussion Section Examples

If you're new to crafting research paper discussions, seeking examples can serve as a helpful guide to tailor your approach according to your paper's style and type.

Discussion For A Scientific Paper

Discussion For A Medical Research Paper

Example of Result And Discussion In Research Paper

Discussion in A Report

Qualitative Research Discussion Example

Wrapping up, 

In this guide, we've explored the essential elements, steps, and provided examples to demystify the process.

By adhering to the outlined steps you ensure a well-rounded and insightful discussion. Always keep your research questions in focus, maintaining clarity and relevance.

Remember, discussions are not merely an endpoint but a springboard for future research. But if you find yourself struggling with the right syllables or structure for your discussion section, professional assistance is just a step away. 

Our reliable writing service is here to support you with your academic writing needs. With our experienced team, you can navigate the complexities of crafting a stellar discussion with confidence. 

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Discussion Section Examples and Writing Tips

Abstract | Introduction | Literature Review | Research question | Materials & Methods | Results | Discussion | Conclusion

In this blog, we look at how to write the discussion section of a research paper. We will go through plenty of discussion examples and understand how to construct a great discussion section for your research paper.

1. What is the purpose of the discussion section?

The discussion section is one of the most important sections of your research paper. This is where you interpret your results, highlight your contributions, and explain the value of your work to your readers.  This is one of the challenging parts to write because the author must clearly explain the significance of their results and tie everything back to the research questions.

2. How should I structure my discussion section?

Generally, the discussion section of a research paper typically contains the following parts.

Research summary It is a good idea to start this section with an overall summary of your work and highlight the main findings of your research.

Interpretation of findings You must interpret your findings clearly to your readers one by one.

Comparison with literature You must talk about how your results fit into existing research in the literature.

Implications of your work You should talk about the implications and possible benefits of your research.

Limitations You should talk about the possible limitations and shortcomings of your research

Future work And finally, you can talk about the possible future directions of your work.

3. Discussion Examples

Let’s look at some examples of the discussion section.  We will be looking at discussion examples from different fields and of different formats. We have split this section into multiple components so that it is easy for you to digest and understand.

3.1. An example of research summary in discussion

It is a good idea to start your discussion section with the summary of your work. The best way to do this will be to restate your research question, and then reminding your readers about your methods, and finally providing an overall summary of your results.

Our aims were to compare the effectiveness and user-friendliness of different storm detection software for storm tracking. On the basis of these aims, we ran multiple experiments with the same conditions using different storm detection software. Our results showed that in both speed and accuracy of data, ‘software A’ performed better than ‘software B’. _  Aims summary  _  Methodology summary  _  Results summary

This discussion example is from an engineering research paper. The authors are restating their aims first, which is to compare different types of storm-tracking software. Then, they are providing a brief summary of the methods. Here, they are testing different storm-tracking software under different conditions to see which performs the best. Then, they are finally providing their main finding which is that they found ‘software A’ better than ‘software B’.  This is a very good example of how to start the discussion section by presenting a summary of your work.

3.2. An example of result interpretation in discussion

The next step is to interpret your results. You have to explain your results clearly to your readers. Here is a discussion example that shows how to interpret your results.

The results of this study indicate significant differences between classical music and pop music in terms of their effects on memory recall and cognition. This implies that as the complexity of the music increases, so does its ability to facilitate cognitive processing. This finding aligns with the well-known “Mozart effect,” which suggests that listening to classical music can enhance cognitive function. _  Result  _  Interpretation  _   Additional evidence

The authors are saying that their results show that there is a significant difference between pop music and classical music in terms of memory recall and cognition. Now they are providing their interpretation of the findings. They think it is because there is a link between the complexity of music and cognitive processing. They are also making a reference to a well-known theory called the ‘Mozart effect’ to back up their findings. It is a nicely written passage and the author’s interpretation sounds very convincing and credible.

3.3. An example of literature comparison in discussion

The next step is to compare your results to the literature. You have to explain clearly how your findings compare with similar findings made by other researchers. Here is a discussion example where authors are providing details of papers in the literature that both support and oppose their findings.

Our analysis predicts that climate change will have a significant impact on wheat yield. This finding undermines one of the central pieces of evidence in some previous simulation studies [1-3] that suggest a negative effect of climate change on wheat yield, but the result is entirely consistent with the predictions of other research [4-5] that suggests the overall change in climate could result in increases in wheat yield. _  Result  _  Comparison with literature

The authors are saying that their results show that climate change will have a significant effect on wheat production. Then, they are saying that there are some papers in the literature that are in agreement with their findings. However, there are also many papers in the literature that disagree with their findings. This is very important. Your discussion should be two-sided, not one-sided. You should not ignore the literature that doesn’t corroborate your findings.

3.4. An example of research implications in discussion

The next step is to explain to your readers how your findings will benefit society and the research community. You have to clearly explain the value of your work to your readers. Here is a discussion example where authors explain the implications of their research.

The results contribute insights with regard to the management of wildfire events using artificial intelligence. One could easily argue that the obvious practical implication of this study is that it proposes utilizing cloud-based machine vision to detect wildfires in real-time, even before the first responders receive emergency calls. _  Your finding  _  Implications of your finding

In this paper, the authors are saying that their findings indicate that Artificial intelligence can be used to effectively manage wildfire events. Then, they are talking about the practical implications of their study. They are saying that their work has proven that machine learning can be used to detect wildfires in real-time. This is a great practical application and can save thousands of lives. As you can see, after reading this passage, you can immediately understand the value and significance of the work.

3.5. An example of limitations in discussion

It is very important that you discuss the limitations of your study. Limitations are flaws and shortcomings of your study. You have to tell your readers how your limitations might influence the outcomes and conclusions of your research. Most studies will have some form of limitation. So be honest and don’t hide your limitations. In reality, your readers and reviewers will be impressed with your paper if you are upfront about your limitations. 

Study design and small sample size are important limitations. This could have led to an overestimation of the effect. Future research should reconfirm these findings by conducting larger-scale studies. _  Limitation  _  How it might affect the results?  _   How to fix the limitation?

Here is a discussion example where the author talks about study limitations. The authors are saying that the main limitations of the study are the small sample size and weak study design. Then they explain how this might have affected their results. They are saying that it is possible that they are overestimating the actual effect they are measuring. Then finally they are telling the readers that more studies with larger sample sizes should be conducted to reconfirm the findings.

As you can see, the authors are clearly explaining three things here:

3.6. An example of future work in discussion

It is important to remember not to end your paper with limitations. Finish your paper on a positive note by telling your readers about the benefits of your research and possible future directions. Here is a discussion example where the author talks about future work.

Our study highlights useful insights about the potential of biomass as a renewable energy source. Future research can extend this research in several ways, including research on how to tackle challenges that hinder the sustainability of renewable energy sources towards climate change mitigation, such as market failures, lack of information and access to raw materials.   _  Benefits of your work  _   Future work

The authors are starting the final paragraph of the discussion section by highlighting the benefit of their work which is the use of biomass as a renewable source of energy. Then they talk about future research. They are saying that future research can focus on how to improve the sustainability of biomass production. This is a very good example of how to finish the discussion section of your paper on a positive note.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

Sometimes you will have negative or unexpected results in your paper. You have to talk about it in your discussion section. A lot of students find it difficult to write this part. The best way to handle this situation is not to look at results as either positive or negative. A result is a result, and you will always have something important and interesting to say about your findings. Just spend some time investigating what might have caused this result and tell your readers about it.

You must talk about the limitations of your work in the discussion section of the paper. One of the important qualities that the scientific community expects from a researcher is honesty and admitting when they have made a mistake. The important trick you have to learn while presenting your limitations is to present them in a constructive way rather than being too negative about them.  You must try to use positive language even when you are talking about major limitations of your work. 

If you have something exciting to say about your results or found something new that nobody else has found before, then, don’t be modest and use flat language when presenting this in the discussion. Use words like ‘break through’, ‘indisputable evidence’, ‘exciting proposition’ to increase the impact of your findings.

Important thing to remember is not to overstate your findings. If you found something really interesting but are not 100% sure, you must not mislead your readers. The best way to do this will be to use words like ‘it appears’ and ‘it seems’. This will tell the readers that there is a slight possibility that you might be wrong.

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How to Write the Discussion Section of a Research Paper

The discussion section of a research paper analyzes and interprets the findings, provides context, compares them with previous studies, identifies limitations, and suggests future research directions.

Updated on September 15, 2023

Structure your discussion section right, and you’ll be cited more often while doing a greater service to the scientific community. So, what actually goes into the discussion section? And how do you write it?

The discussion section of your research paper is where you let the reader know how your study is positioned in the literature, what to take away from your paper, and how your work helps them. It can also include your conclusions and suggestions for future studies.

First, we’ll define all the parts of your discussion paper, and then look into how to write a strong, effective discussion section for your paper or manuscript.

Discussion section: what is it, what it does

The discussion section comes later in your paper, following the introduction, methods, and results. The discussion sets up your study’s conclusions. Its main goals are to present, interpret, and provide a context for your results.

What is it?

The discussion section provides an analysis and interpretation of the findings, compares them with previous studies, identifies limitations, and suggests future directions for research.

This section combines information from the preceding parts of your paper into a coherent story. By this point, the reader already knows why you did your study (introduction), how you did it (methods), and what happened (results). In the discussion, you’ll help the reader connect the ideas from these sections.

Why is it necessary?

The discussion provides context and interpretations for the results. It also answers the questions posed in the introduction. While the results section describes your findings, the discussion explains what they say. This is also where you can describe the impact or implications of your research.

Adds context for your results

Most research studies aim to answer a question, replicate a finding, or address limitations in the literature. These goals are first described in the introduction. However, in the discussion section, the author can refer back to them to explain how the study's objective was achieved. 

Shows what your results actually mean and real-world implications

The discussion can also describe the effect of your findings on research or practice. How are your results significant for readers, other researchers, or policymakers?

What to include in your discussion (in the correct order)

A complete and effective discussion section should at least touch on the points described below.

Summary of key findings

The discussion should begin with a brief factual summary of the results. Concisely overview the main results you obtained.

Begin with key findings with supporting evidence

Your results section described a list of findings, but what message do they send when you look at them all together?

Your findings were detailed in the results section, so there’s no need to repeat them here, but do provide at least a few highlights. This will help refresh the reader’s memory and help them focus on the big picture.

Read the first paragraph of the discussion section in this article (PDF) for an example of how to start this part of your paper. Notice how the authors break down their results and follow each description sentence with an explanation of why each finding is relevant. 

State clearly and concisely

Following a clear and direct writing style is especially important in the discussion section. After all, this is where you will make some of the most impactful points in your paper. While the results section often contains technical vocabulary, such as statistical terms, the discussion section lets you describe your findings more clearly. 

Interpretation of results

Once you’ve given your reader an overview of your results, you need to interpret those results. In other words, what do your results mean? Discuss the findings’ implications and significance in relation to your research question or hypothesis.

Analyze and interpret your findings

Look into your findings and explore what’s behind them or what may have caused them. If your introduction cited theories or studies that could explain your findings, use these sources as a basis to discuss your results.

For example, look at the second paragraph in the discussion section of this article on waggling honey bees. Here, the authors explore their results based on information from the literature.

Unexpected or contradictory results

Sometimes, your findings are not what you expect. Here’s where you describe this and try to find a reason for it. Could it be because of the method you used? Does it have something to do with the variables analyzed? Comparing your methods with those of other similar studies can help with this task.

Context and comparison with previous work

Refer to related studies to place your research in a larger context and the literature. Compare and contrast your findings with existing literature, highlighting similarities, differences, and/or contradictions.

How your work compares or contrasts with previous work

Studies with similar findings to yours can be cited to show the strength of your findings. Information from these studies can also be used to help explain your results. Differences between your findings and others in the literature can also be discussed here. 

How to divide this section into subsections

If you have more than one objective in your study or many key findings, you can dedicate a separate section to each of these. Here’s an example of this approach. You can see that the discussion section is divided into topics and even has a separate heading for each of them. 

Limitations

Many journals require you to include the limitations of your study in the discussion. Even if they don’t, there are good reasons to mention these in your paper.

Why limitations don’t have a negative connotation

A study’s limitations are points to be improved upon in future research. While some of these may be flaws in your method, many may be due to factors you couldn’t predict.

Examples include time constraints or small sample sizes. Pointing this out will help future researchers avoid or address these issues. This part of the discussion can also include any attempts you have made to reduce the impact of these limitations, as in this study .

How limitations add to a researcher's credibility

Pointing out the limitations of your study demonstrates transparency. It also shows that you know your methods well and can conduct a critical assessment of them.  

Implications and significance

The final paragraph of the discussion section should contain the take-home messages for your study. It can also cite the “strong points” of your study, to contrast with the limitations section.

Restate your hypothesis

Remind the reader what your hypothesis was before you conducted the study. 

How was it proven or disproven?

Identify your main findings and describe how they relate to your hypothesis.

How your results contribute to the literature

Were you able to answer your research question? Or address a gap in the literature?

Future implications of your research

Describe the impact that your results may have on the topic of study. Your results may show, for instance, that there are still limitations in the literature for future studies to address. There may be a need for studies that extend your findings in a specific way. You also may need additional research to corroborate your findings. 

Sample discussion section

This fictitious example covers all the aspects discussed above. Your actual discussion section will probably be much longer, but you can read this to get an idea of everything your discussion should cover.

Our results showed that the presence of cats in a household is associated with higher levels of perceived happiness by its human occupants. These findings support our hypothesis and demonstrate the association between pet ownership and well-being. 

The present findings align with those of Bao and Schreer (2016) and Hardie et al. (2023), who observed greater life satisfaction in pet owners relative to non-owners. Although the present study did not directly evaluate life satisfaction, this factor may explain the association between happiness and cat ownership observed in our sample.

Our findings must be interpreted in light of some limitations, such as the focus on cat ownership only rather than pets as a whole. This may limit the generalizability of our results.

Nevertheless, this study had several strengths. These include its strict exclusion criteria and use of a standardized assessment instrument to investigate the relationships between pets and owners. These attributes bolster the accuracy of our results and reduce the influence of confounding factors, increasing the strength of our conclusions. Future studies may examine the factors that mediate the association between pet ownership and happiness to better comprehend this phenomenon.

This brief discussion begins with a quick summary of the results and hypothesis. The next paragraph cites previous research and compares its findings to those of this study. Information from previous studies is also used to help interpret the findings. After discussing the results of the study, some limitations are pointed out. The paper also explains why these limitations may influence the interpretation of results. Then, final conclusions are drawn based on the study, and directions for future research are suggested.

How to make your discussion flow naturally

If you find writing in scientific English challenging, the discussion and conclusions are often the hardest parts of the paper to write. That’s because you’re not just listing up studies, methods, and outcomes. You’re actually expressing your thoughts and interpretations in words.

• How formal should it be?
• What words should you use, or not use?
• How do you meet strict word limits, or make it longer and more informative?

Always give it your best, but sometimes a helping hand can, well, help. Getting a professional edit can help clarify your work’s importance while improving the English used to explain it. When readers know the value of your work, they’ll cite it. We’ll assign your study to an expert editor knowledgeable in your area of research. Their work will clarify your discussion, helping it to tell your story. Find out more about AJE Editing.

Adam Goulston, PsyD, MS, MBA, MISD, ELS

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How to Write a Discussion Section of a Research Paper

Embarking upon the scholarly task of assembling a research paper presents both challenges and triumphs. Among the pivotal segments, the discussion section stands out, often becoming a source of apprehension for many. In this exploration, we navigate the finer details and contours of the discussion outline, spotlighting its significance, optimal length, and primary objectives.

Defining the Discussion Section in Research Papers

The discussion section, strategically positioned towards the paper's denouement, serves as the crucible where findings acquire depth and perspective. This isn't just an avenue to recapitulate data; it is the domain where you, the scholar, bestow a comprehensive analysis of surprising outcomes, infusing them with meaning, and tethering them back to your research's overarching objectives. The inherent essence of the discussion section is encapsulated in its prowess to expound on the relevance of your findings, either illuminating previously unexplored avenues or rejuvenating established knowledge with renewed insights.

Unveiling the Objectives of the Discussion Section

The ambitions of this enlightening section can be categorized into three distinct tiers:

• Review and Position: Embark with a holistic review, extrapolating from your research's corpus to furnish a lucid context. Think of it as a nexus, bridging the chasms that might exist between different segments, enabling readers to amalgamate the presented information with finesse.
• Decode and Dissect: Veer away from the straightforward delineation of results; instead, guide your audience through the labyrinth of interpretations, elucidating the implications of each discovery. Set your findings against the backdrop of extant literature, pinpointing congruencies and disparities, and underscoring the innovative nature of your methodology.
• Introspect and Appraise: Exhibit a discerning reflection by juxtaposing the robustness and constraints of your investigation. In this sphere, acknowledging the limitations isn't a weakness but a virtue. Recognizing potential pitfalls in your research not only augments its authenticity but also beckons further scholarly exploration.

Decoding the Length Dynamics of a Research Paper's Discussion Section

The length's determinants, while inherently subjective and intricately tethered to the amplitude and profundity of your research, abide by certain benchmarks. Commonly, the discussion section shouldn't dwarf other sections in its extent. Instead, it ought to fit seamlessly, ideally within the confines of 6-7 rigorously sculpted paragraphs. By drawing correlations with extant studies and in order to order research paper online efficiently, a prevalent range oscillates between 1100 and 2200 words. Nonetheless, the focus should lean more towards the intrinsic worth of each word rather than sheer volume, thereby illuminating your findings and crafting a panoramic view.

Blueprint for a Robust Discussion Section in a Research Paper

The discussion section stands as the climax of your research paper, revered as the arena where your research outcomes are analyzed, juxtaposed, and accorded profound depth. Its framework should harmoniously integrate the following facets:

• Restatement of Central Outcomes: Initiate by succinctly revisiting the primary outcomes, reacquainting the reader and setting the stage for subsequent elaborations.
• Relation to Previous Scholarship: Establish connections and divergences with preceding literature, spotlighting the innovative and pertinent aspects of your findings within the expansive milieu of academic discourse.
• Dissection of Anomalous Results: Occasionally, outliers emerge. Probe into these unanticipated results, postulating plausible causes and their overarching implications.
• Study Limitations: A discerning scholar candidly outlines the boundaries of their investigation, heralding transparency and germinating seeds for prospective research trajectories.
• Suggestions: Whether outlining implications for real-world application or delineating trajectories for ensuing studies, convey them with acuity.
• Epilogue: A culminating synopsis, accentuating the essence of your discussion and the overarching ramifications of your investigation.

Penning the Discussion Section of a Research Paper: A Seven-Step Odyssey

Charting the course for the construction of the discussion segment warrants a methodical blueprint. Here's an illustrative guide, which serves as an example of discussion in research paper crafting, to steer your intellectual endeavors:

• Commence with Clarity: Embark with a lucid overview of the most paramount findings, situating them within the vast expanse of research narratives.
• Delve Analytically: Engross yourself in each outcome, deciphering and assessing its inherent worth.
• Correlate and Differentiate: Counterpose your outcomes with canonical literature, emphasizing convergences and divergences.
• Illuminate Aberrations: Bring to the fore any aberrant results, demystifying their genesis and repercussions.
• Concede Limitations: Chronicle any potential bottlenecks or confines, epitomizing scholastic veracity.
• Envision Ahead: Advocate lucid suggestions, be they tangible implications or avenues for imminent scholarly pursuits.
• Summate with Assurance: Reaffirm the crux of your inquiry, underscoring its scholarly contributions and gravitas.

Potential Pitfalls in a Discussion Section

The discussion outline is a nuanced equilibrium, and certain oversights can diminish its impact. Here's what goes in the discussion section of a research paper, juxtaposed with elements to eschew:

• Grandiose Generalizations: Circumvent overarching assertions that are devoid of empirical backing.
• Unbridled Conjecture: While postulating is permissible, rampant speculation can detract from the trustworthiness of your interpretations.
• Redundant Recitations: The discussion's role is elucidation, not mere echoing of results.
• Excessive Certitude: Embrace and acknowledge the probabilistic nature of research outcomes, tempering declarations with humility.
• Oversight of Dissonant Data: Selective representation can beget skewed interpretations. Wholeheartedly accept your data spectrum, inclusive of outcomes that may challenge your initial postulates.

Infusing Vitality into Your Discussion Section

A compelling discussion transcends the mere cataloging of findings; it's a confluence of insights, interlacing disparate research threads into an integrated narrative. To augment your discussion's resonance:

• Exude Zeal: Illuminate the pages with your unfeigned passion and fervor for the subject at hand.
• Forge Wide-ranging Connections: Relate your discoveries to tangible real-world consequences, accentuating their societal or pragmatic implications.
• Stimulate Further Exploration: Galvanize readers to muse, interrogate, and venture beyond the perimeter of your exposition.
• Adopt Resonant Diction: While preserving scholastic rigor, gravitate towards terminology that evokes, clarifies, and engages.

Frequently Asked Questions

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