Understanding the difference between the discussion and conclusion sections in research papers is crucial for researchers to convey the importance of their work effectively. While both sections interpret research findings, they have distinct focuses.
The conclusion summarizes the main points, and the discussion goes into more detail about the findings. Both are crucial components, each fulfilling its unique role in presenting and concluding a research study.
In this article, we explore these sections, guiding how to structure and articulate discussion vs conclusion clearly. Ultimately, both sections should address the question: What do the research results mean? (1)(2)
Purpose: Discussion vs Conclusion
The discussion section, as a comprehensive review of the research findings, plays a pivotal role in connecting all the preceding sections. It acts as a bridge, highlighting and illustrating the connections between them. Here, the author’s interpretation, analysis, and explanation of the research results matter and how they align with existing literature is crucial for the study’s continuity and significance.
Moreover, the discussion section demands self-reflection, acknowledging the study’s limitations and identifying areas for future exploration. It deep dives into the implications of the findings, drawing meaningful conclusions from their analysis.
On the other hand, the conclusion section serves as a concise summary of the paper’s main points. While it touches upon key aspects of the research, it does not offer the same level of depth and analysis as the discussion section.
Rather than delving into interpretation and analysis, the conclusion section presents the essence of the study and emphasizes its significance to the reader. It acts as a final statement, leaving the reader with a clear understanding of the research’s implications without going into the details. (2)(3)
What to include in the discussion section?
The discussion section can be divided into three parts: introduction, body, and conclusion.
In the introduction, you present the main idea of your study without repeating what you said in the introduction section. You start with a clear statement and answer critical questions: What’s the issue? What solutions can you suggest? What’s new and innovative about your study? What contribution does it make towards resolving the problem?
The body of the discussion section interprets your results, discusses their implications, and compares them to previous studies. You explain how your work is similar to or different from others and analyze the results thematically. You also explain why your study is essential for future research.
In the conclusion section, you mention the strengths of your study while being objective about its limitations. You suggest future directions for research and summarize the main findings in a simple “take-home message.” (4)(5)
What to include in the conclusion section?
The conclusion section, as the opportunity to make a final statement on the topics discussed, is not just a summary. It’s a chance to leave a lasting impression. Just like the introduction sets the tone, the conclusion can leave a lasting impact. By highlighting key findings that shed new light on the research problem, are unexpected, or have significant practical implications, you can make your research memorable and impactful.
Summarize your thoughts and emphasize the broader significance of your study and ideas. Use this section to elaborate on the impact of your findings, especially if your study offers a unique perspective on the research problem.
Identify how your study fills a gap in the literature that you identified in your literature review. Explain how your research addresses this gap and adds to the understanding of the topic.
Lastly, in the conclusion section, consider introducing new ways of thinking about the research problem based on your findings. This doesn’t mean adding new information but rather offering fresh insights. This is an opportunity to show the potential of your research to contribute to the field and inspire further studies. (6)(7)
Discussion vs. Conclusion: Key Differences
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Discussion |
Conclusion |
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Analyzes research findings thoroughly, delving into data nuances to provide insights and interpretations.
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Offers a brief summary of key findings from the thesis, capturing the research’s essence and highlighting its importance.
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Presents arguments and evidence clearly and concisely, providing thorough analysis and explanation of the research findings. |
Strengthens the thesis statement by restating the main argument or hypothesis of the research.
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Critically assesses results and explains their significance, analyzing the implications of the findings and their contribution to the field. |
Focuses on summarizing existing findings and drawing conclusions based on the study’s analysis, avoiding new information or arguments.
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Addresses introduction questions, provides future research recommendations, acknowledges study limitations, and suggests areas for exploration. |
Illustrates the relationship between two variables, highlighting data patterns and drawing connections between various research aspects.
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Acknowledges research limitations, ensuring transparency and balanced assessment of findings. |
Summarizes research significance, emphasizing relevance, impact, and implications for future research and practice. (8)
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References:
- Discussion and Conclusion – Springer
- Discussion Section for Research Papers – San José State University
- Organizing Academic Research Papers: 9. The Conclusion – Sacred Heart University
- How to write a discussion section? – National Library of Medicine
- How to Write the Discussion? – Springer
- Organizing Your Social Sciences Research Paper – University of Southern California
- How to Write a Conclusion for a Research Paper – Mind the Graph
- Discussion vs Conclusion: Everything You Need to Know – FirstEditing.com
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