Which part of a scientific manuscript is the most important? 1. ABSTRACT 2. RESULTS 3. DISCUSSION 4. CONCLUSION
Scientific papers are written based on the results. But whatever the results, they are to be interpreted in the discussion section in the context of worldwide scientific discovery. The most important part of his paper is the discussion, which reveals the Author's scientific personality.
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Vijay Nema
I believe the abstract has to be very attractive as most of the searcher and readers first glance the abstract only and if that appeals, they move forward to read the later part of the manuscript. No doubt, other part also need to have the quality.
spurv
Either the abstract or the discussion section. Abstract is what draws your reader in and is the most likely part of your paper to be read. The discussion is where you are able to highlight all of your findings & recommendations.
Shankar
In a scientific manuscript, the most important part is often considered to be the "Results" section. This section presents the findings of the study, which are the primary focus of the research. The results provide evidence to support or refute the hypothesis and form the basis for the conclusions drawn in the manuscript. However, the importance of each section may vary depending on the specific discipline and context of the research.
Trudy
Methods! They should be very clear and complete to allow replication. If the methods are not well written the rest of the manuscript is useless as it cannot be properly interpreted. Subsequently the results (only if the methods are clear).
PV
While each section has its importance, if I were to emphasize one, it would be the Results section. This preference is grounded in the notion that providing a comprehensive overview of the results not only imparts information about the outcomes but also enables readers to independently draw their own conclusions.
The sole potential drawback emerges when the methodology utilized to attain the results is considered inappropriate.
The sole potential drawback emerges when the methodology utilized to attain the results is considered inappropriate.
Maria Marta Facchinetti
Altough all parts are important, if I have to choose the most relevant, I would choose the Results section. This election is based in that the descrption of the results, allows the render to know the resilts but also take his/her own conclusión. Moreover, the reader can also discuss him/herself the results, taking into account other related-published works.
The only problem would be the case in which the methodology used to obtain the results would not be appropiate.
The only problem would be the case in which the methodology used to obtain the results would not be appropiate.
Buhari Habibu
It depends on the target and interest of the reader, if the interest is to have a quick glance, the Abstract section is best. If the interest is on the integrity of the research, the Materials and Methods section remains the most valuable. If the interest is to understand the scientific and practical implication of the study, the Discussion section is your best bet.
Dr. Manoj K Mahata
The discussion section of a manuscript is really important. In this section, the authors can express their ideas or solutions to explain the observed phenomena. At the same time, as a reader, the abstract is important to get an idea of the research's proper reflection in the work summary.
Tao Zhang
When I'm interested in an article, I prefer to thoroughly read the methods and results sections. This approach helps me to clearly comprehend what the data signifies and the article's value.
Dr. Bhavya Deep
Each section has its own significance and is important. Still if one section is to chosen as most important, I will choose Discussion as it is this section where the author discusses the pros and cons of his/her research which gradually opens up new ideas for future research.
Shubham Tripathi
Every part of a scientific manuscript plays a vital role in research outcomes. Here are some key points:
- Title: The title should be concise yet descriptive, capturing the soul of the research.
- Abstract: The abstract provides a summary of the entire manuscript, including the research question, methods, results, and conclusions. It should be clear and informative.
- Introduction: This section outlines the background and context of the study, including the research gap or question being addressed and the significance of the research.
- Methods: The methods section describes how the study was conducted, including the experimental design, materials used, and procedures followed. It should provide enough detail for other researchers to replicate the study.
- Results: This section presents the findings of the study, often using tables, figures, and/or graphs to summarize the data. It should be objective and concise, focusing on key results without interpretation.
- Discussion: Here, the results are interpreted in the context of existing literature, and the implications of the findings are discussed. Any limitations of the study should also be acknowledged, along with suggestions for future research.
- Conclusion: The conclusion summarizes the main findings of the study and their significance. It should be concise and directly related to the research question or hypothesis.
- References: A list of all the sources cited in the manuscript, following a specific citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).
- Acknowledgments: This section typically acknowledges individuals or organizations that contributed to the research but do not meet the criteria for authorship. Funding sources may also be acknowledged here.
- Supplementary Materials: Additional information that supports the main findings of the study but is not essential for understanding the main manuscript. This may include additional data, methods details, or analyses.
Dr. Sajid
My perspective is conclusively the most important point is abstract; because abstract the concluded information about any study which is firstly available for readers. After going through the abstract, reader decide whether this study is suitable and in line with literature he/she is seeking for. Therefore, the abstract should be well designed with meaningful information.
PharmCath
Methodology is the most important part! If the methods are not sound, then the results and conclusion are meaningless.
TP
It depends. Abstract is most important for attracting potential readers to read through your manuscript. Results is most important for showing the value of your work. Discussion is most important for showing your expertise level in your field. If i have to choose one, that would be results.
XRay
As I see it, the abstract plays a crucial role in a scientific manuscript because it is a brief summary of the entire paper, covering the research question, methods, results, and conclusions. Abstract allows readers to grasp the main points swiftly, saving them time and effort.
Nazia Rafique
In my opinion, the Abstract is the most important part of scientific publication. It is the crux of the whole study.
Morgan
ABSTRACT - always visible and accessible to the broader and non-specialist publics.
Way too many times, people over-extended the implications of their findings which then get picked up in the popular media...
I always pay attention to this when doing peer-review
Way too many times, people over-extended the implications of their findings which then get picked up in the popular media...
I always pay attention to this when doing peer-review
Ligia
What a challenging question. Every section of a manuscript should be written according to its specific aim, and each section complements the other. But taking into account research, the triad of methods, results and discussion are the core of the manuscript. If I had to choose “one”, it would be the discussion section, since it describes the results, putting the study findings to a broader perspective and assessing the study’s limitations. So, a well written discussion would be the most important.
AlessandraMD
In my opinion the DISCUSSION, but also the end of INTRODUCTION is very important. The most fundamental parts are the one where you describe the AIMS of your work (end of INTRO) and the part where you actually describe what you found and why it is important (DISCUSSION). Making a nice figure to summarize all, if possible, always help
LOAI ALJERF
The most important part of a scientific manuscript is the discussion section. This is where the author interprets the results in the context of existing scientific knowledge, demonstrates their understanding of the broader implications of the findings, and showcases their scientific personality. The discussion section is crucial in bridging the gap between data and meaningful insights, making it an indispensable part of the scientific manuscript.
AFZAL
I think, It's difficult to say definitively which part of a scientific manuscript is the absolute most important, as each section plays a crucial role. However, two sections are particularly vital:
- Results: This section presents the findings of the research. It's the core data that the entire manuscript hinges on. Without clear and accurate results, the rest of the paper loses meaning.
- Discussion: This section interprets the results in the context of existing knowledge. It explains what the findings mean, how they fit with previous research, and what their significance is.
Here's a breakdown of the importance of the other two options:
- Abstract: This is a concise summary of the entire manuscript, often the first thing readers see. While crucial for grabbing attention, it doesn't carry the weight of the core findings.
- Conclusion: This section summarizes the main points and reiterates the significance of the research. It builds on the discussion but isn't as in-depth.
Tung
Depending on when and how we examine the manuscript, the ABSTRACT, RESULTS, DISCUSSION, or CONCLUSION will each hold importance. For instance, during a literature review, the ABSTRACT stands out as the most crucial section. Among thousands of manuscripts, abstracts aid scientists in saving time by selecting the appropriate research papers. RESULTS, in turn, enable us (scientists) to comprehend how the research was conducted and how the raw data can be interpreted. For general readers (non-scientists), the DISCUSSION section assists in logically connecting the results, particularly when non-scientists seek to grasp the implications. Therefore, depending on the audience, timing, and purpose, each segment of a scientific manuscript fulfills its role.
Ahmed Y. Azzam, MD, MEng
I vote for results.
Any part of the manuscript could be revised and fixed if there are any concerns. But, results are essential reflection of proper methods. If they are not done properly, the whole paper will fail.
Any part of the manuscript could be revised and fixed if there are any concerns. But, results are essential reflection of proper methods. If they are not done properly, the whole paper will fail.
Jaume
In my opinion, on of the most important parts of a Manucript is METHODS. If a good methodoly is not performed, the rest of the paper does not make sense.
Moreove, it is important to clearly select your primary and secondary endpoint and write your results according to your endpoints.
Moreove, it is important to clearly select your primary and secondary endpoint and write your results according to your endpoints.
dr1mustafa
I think that the Abstract is reflect the whole article. Therefore, Abstract is most important part of the article.
Jose Jardim
I think the most important section is RESULTS, as even if the authors cannot put on a good discussion I still may look at their results and give them my own interpretation and use their results when I need to compare my reults or the literature´ s results.
Dewan Md. Sumsuzzman
The introduction serves as the cornerstone of a scientific manuscript, as it strategically provides contextual background, articulates research objectives and hypotheses, conducts a thorough literature review to establish the study's position within existing knowledge, engages readers by outlining the significance of the research problem, outlines the manuscript's structure, and ultimately enables a comprehensive understanding of the subsequent sections by framing the study's purpose and relevance within the broader scientific landscape.
HEMAVATI
In my perspective, the discussion section holds significant importance. Within this segment, all findings are critically assessed in the context of existing research. It provides a concise overview of the key results and helps determine their relevance to practical applications rather than being solely of academic interest.
Alzhraa A. Mohamed
I think the Abstract is the most important section since it reflects almost everything in your work.
Franklin Chu Buh
As the gat way into the article, the Abstract is very important it contains abit of all the other sections...One can tell from the abstract if he or she can continue reading the Article
Sundaramanickam
All sections of a scientific manuscript are important, but the relative importance of each section can depend on the context and the specific purpose of the manuscript. However, if we were to consider the overall significance of each section:
- Abstract: This is usually the first section that readers encounter. It serves as a concise summary of the entire paper, highlighting the research question, methods, key findings, and conclusions. Many researchers and readers initially rely on the abstract to determine if the full article is relevant to their interests. Therefore, the abstract is crucial for quickly communicating the essence of the study.
- Results: This section presents the actual findings derived from the research. It contains data, observations, and analyses without interpretations or discussion. The results section is fundamental as it provides empirical evidence and information, serving as the basis for the study's conclusions and implications.
- Discussion: The discussion section interprets the results, relates them to existing knowledge, discusses their significance, and explores their implications. It's where the author provides context, compares findings with previous studies, considers limitations, and suggests areas for further research. This section often showcases the depth of understanding and critical thinking of the researchers.
- Conclusion: The conclusion section summarizes the key points discussed in the paper. It reiterates the main findings and their significance, often highlighting how the study contributes to the field. It's the final opportunity for the author to reinforce the importance of their work and its potential impact.
Each section serves a specific purpose in a scientific manuscript, and they all work together to communicate the research effectively. The importance of each section can vary depending on the reader's perspective and the nature of the research being presented.
Carsten
In my opinion, it is the discussion. Within this section, all results are balanced and evaluated within the light of all other research. You receive a quick overview of the most important results and you also get knowledge if these results are relevant for us or if they are just of academical interest.
Carrie Cizauskas
Abstract and discussion. Abstract lures you in; discussion gives all the relevant results, with full context. Then, one can go back to the results section (and methods, as needed) to parse specific aspects of the data. Introductions, however, are the best for helping folks new to a subject - not just for the overview information, but for the links to otter papers that spiral out from there. Of course, a case could be made for the methods being most important when one is trying to develop an experimental plan of understand what kinds of statistical methods to use for different kinds of data. It’s all dependent on context, isn’t it.
Sonja
Abstract and Results. These are always the first parts I read to decide whether I keep reading the paper...
supejiang
In terms of importance, it's challenging to single out one section as the most important, as they are interconnected. Different sections serve distinct purposes, and their importance can vary depending on the context and the reader's goals. e.g researchers might focus more on the methods and results, while practitioners may be particularly interested in the implications discussed in the conclusion.
DottFra
The most important part are the abstract and the results, as the first are used to capture the attention and the second to reflect the real content of the paper
PSP
The most important part is the abstract because it allows access to the most relevant and clear knowledge in a concise way. If the results presented are of interest, the discussion section is interesting to clarify the real impact of the results and their interpretation.
Adel Elbeialy
The first part which draws attention is the title of the manuscript, then the abstract which abbreviates the whole manuscript. All web search engines use the abstract only because it is the key to the whole work, which leads you to either complete reading the manuscript or neglect.
Odubela Tosin
I want to believe the abstract section is the most important part of the manuscript. This is the section that draws the attention of prospective readers to the manuscript. If the abstract does not capture the readers' interest, the work may not generate the desired followership.
JSKC
Definitely the methods and results sections. The quality of a study is almost entirely dependent on the design and analytic methods, and the results is obviously the output that you are looking for. The intro usually sets the scene / tone and the discussion lets you interpret the findings -- assuming that you know a bit about the subject area already, you can usually interpret the results yourself and the discussion is only there to let you know what the authors think.
Alperen Elek
The evaluation of an abstract manuscript is very valuable in terms of deciding whether readers will read your study among the vast literature. However, the results section of a study reveals the essence of that study, and once the reader has chosen, they will pay close attention to it.
Even if it’s not mentioned in the question, it should not be forgotten that the method section is often the most criticized part by reviewers.
Knowing which part of the manuscript serves which purpose is very important in terms of prioritizing, and it can vary depending on the type of study.
Even if it’s not mentioned in the question, it should not be forgotten that the method section is often the most criticized part by reviewers.
Knowing which part of the manuscript serves which purpose is very important in terms of prioritizing, and it can vary depending on the type of study.
Muhammad Abbas Abid
There is no way to ascertain the most important part of a manuscript. The methods section and the references are not mentioned here, which I read profoundly as they provide valuable information about the credibility and quality of work. Still, if I have to read only one part, I would say Discussion is the most important part. Only reading the discussion would give me a gist of the results, as well as what these results imply in a local and global perspective. And the limitations would tell me how generalizable the findings can be.
Ravindra Thakkar
An abstract holds paramount significance within a scientific manuscript. Readers typically scrutinize the abstract initially to assess its relevance to their needs. Following closely in importance is the results section, while the discussion and conclusion may exhibit bias as they reflect the authors' perspectives.
Francis33
It depends on the field. In life sciences in general, the results is definitely the most important. The results is what I look for when I'm deciding if the conclusions and discussion of the paper make sense with what I know from the topic. Sometimes, you see the data is supporting the conclusions, but you don't quite trust the conclusions when you see the effects are small or you interpret the data in a different way. I agree with others saying the discussion show the personality of the author, and I personally enjoy reading the discussion much more than any other section, but in terms of importance the results are the main one. I also agree that the abstract is very important, since it will be the first glance on your paper when somebody is doing a literature review.
YalcinMD
Obviously, it is the results section. Carefully constructed results and supportive data graphs and summaries constitute the backbone of a scientific paper.
AuroEN
In my opinion the ABSTRACT is one of the most important parts as it is the section that provides a concise and comprehensive summary of the whole manuscript, it allows to convey to the readers the research problem, methodology, key findings and implications, and it is the crucial point for them to make the decision to read the whole manuscript because of the quality and clarity of the abstract.
EF
The reason, why a manuscript is composed of the different parts, is that all parts are important because if a discussion is based on results, which were not correctly generated, analysed and interpreted, the discussion is worthless. The materials and methods section was even not mentioned in the list. The abstract should be a useful summary of all parts and stimulate the interest of the reader - this is also very important.
Berkan