The results chapter presents what you found — clearly, objectively and without interpretation. It is where your data does the talking. Many students weaken this chapter by mixing in discussion or by presenting data poorly. This complete UK guide explains what belongs in a results chapter, how to present quantitative and qualitative findings, and how it differs from the discussion.
What Is the Results Chapter?
The results (or findings) chapter reports your data objectively. It answers “what did you find?” using tables, figures and clear description — without yet explaining what the findings mean. Interpretation belongs in the discussion.
Results vs Discussion
Keep them separate. Results present the findings; the discussion interprets them. Some disciplines combine the two, but even then, reporting and interpretation should remain distinguishable. See our discussion chapter guide.
Presenting Quantitative Results
Use clearly labelled tables and figures with units and captions, report the key statistics, and highlight the most important patterns in the text. Do not duplicate every number in both a table and prose — let the visual carry the detail.
Presenting Qualitative Results
Organise findings by theme, use representative quotes to illustrate each, and describe patterns across your data. Keep your own interpretation light here — present what participants said and what themes emerged.
Structuring the Chapter
Organise results around your research questions or themes, in a logical order. A short introduction restating the questions, followed by findings grouped clearly, helps the reader follow what you found and why it answers the study.
Common Mistakes and Tips
✓ Interpreting instead of reporting.
✓ Unlabelled or cluttered tables.
✓ Duplicating data in text and tables.
✓ No clear organisation. Tip: report objectively, organise by question or theme, and save interpretation for the discussion.
How Projectsdeal Helps
Dissertation writing service, PhD dissertation help and thesis writing help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a results chapter?
The chapter that presents your findings objectively, without interpretation.
What is the difference between results and discussion?
Results report what you found; the discussion interprets what it means.
How do I present quantitative results?
In clearly labelled tables and figures, highlighting key statistics and patterns in the text.
How do I present qualitative results?
Organise by theme, use representative quotes, and describe patterns across the data.
Should I interpret data in the results chapter?
No — keep interpretation for the discussion chapter.
How should I organise the chapter?
Around your research questions or themes, in a logical order.
Can results and discussion be combined?
In some disciplines yes, but reporting and interpretation should stay distinguishable.
Should I repeat every number in the text?
No — let tables carry detail and highlight only the key findings in prose.
Related Study Guides
How to Write a Discussion Chapter • How to Write a Methodology • How to Write a Dissertation • How to Write a Conclusion
Need Expert Academic Help?
ProjectsDeal provides trusted dissertation, thesis, and essay writing support for UK university students. Get matched with a specialist in your subject area.