IV. FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS OF THE STUDY

A. Findings of the research study

After collecting data, it is time to present your findings.  Depending on the amount of data collected, you may or may not be able to present all findings.

Since time and space are limited, it is critical that you select the most relevant and significant findings to highlight in your project. The information you share should relate directly to the objectives of the research.

 

There are several ways to show findings, the most common of which are:

-Text (in sentences)

-Graphs

-Infographics

 

While reporting findings in sentences within the report is acceptable, keep in mind that you will be using numbers, including percentages.  This can be difficult to communicate clearly in a sentence.

 

Many of your findings will be presented using graphs.  Here is a short article that should be useful: How to Use 6 Basic Charts to Create Effective Reports.  

I also suggest you read this article: How To Summarize & Display Survey Data.  

 

Here is a "Pro Tip" that will help you out:  Do not use a chart and merely include a heading. The appropriate way of reporting findings is to use text (a paragraph or more) and drawing the reader’s attention to a figure (chart, graph, infographic, etc.) that makes the description clearer. The chart is located after the text which explains it.

 

If you want your findings to stand out a bit more, I encourage you to consider an infographic.  A well-designed infographic can help you simplify a complicated subject or turn an otherwise boring subject into a captivating experience.

 

Here is an article that will help you understand the goal of creating an infographic by showing you a selection of examples: The 100 best infographics.  

If you decide to create an infographic, try this free tool. 
 

B. Conclusions based on the findings

You have collected all the data (both secondary and primary), and you have reported on the findings.  Now you must interpret the data and draw conclusions as to what that data means.

 

This is the most critical part of the research.  The judges will be most interested in the concrete findings of the research. Remember, you need to be able to show how your conclusions grow out of the findings you have reported.

 

It would also be appropriate at this time to point our recommendations that would become the basis for your cause marketing campaign.