Professional Development


59 - IMRAD structure: Discussion
Authors usually make the mistake of repeating the description of the results of the study in the Discussion section. In the Discussion section, we must explain the results, emphasize the new and important aspects of the study and write the conclusions. Therefore, we must not repeat the details of the data or other material described in the Introduction or the Results sections. In experimental studies, it is useful to begin the Discussion section by briefly summarizing the main findings, and then explore possible mechanisms or explanations for these findings, compare the results with and against other relevant studies, state the limitations of the study and explore the implications of the findings for future research and/or clinical practice.It is useful to link the conclusions to the goals of the study, but the author must avoid unqualified statements and conclusions that are not adequately supported by the data. You must avoid claiming priority and referring to work that has not been completed. If necessary, you may propose new hypotheses, but clearly define them as such.