23

Research Report

I f you would go up high, than use your own legs! Do not get yourself carried aloft; do not seat
yourself on other people's back and head"
Niet Zsche
The report gives some good,objective research to policy makers to help formulate strategies and
policies to encourage more students to stay and more graduates yo come back."
John Witherspoon.

Introduction:
The final stage of research work is report writing. Research work is not complete, unless report of
research is presented properly. The research problem, hypothesis, empirical findings may be superb
and brilliant, but they may be turn futile, if they are not well communicated or nicely presented to the
audience or readers. Research report, addresses to the reader, the entire findings of research in nutshell
A report may also be preseted to the experts in the field of legal studies, for his critical examination
and comments. It should be detailed description presented in a precise manner. A research report;
highlights the research findings for the dissipation of knowledge and dissemination ofrnew information

Meaning and concept of research report:

It is a brief statement, which contains evidence through which conclusion derived by the researcher.
t is a last stage of research enquiry, which conveys the whole result of the study in sufticient detail. It
is a brief statement, as to the significant facts, which is necessary for understanding research work and

generalization Investigator. Prepares the report when he finalized all research exercises i.e.
broad
selecting problem forming hypothesis making empirical study, making analysis, data interpretation
and generalization. He never describes the vast planning and all preparation he has made for making
ne research study. He conveys important findings and how he has found them.

Writing a research report is a presentation. It requires proper planning and articulation. It

artistic
and
ecessitates deep though and lucid expression. Writing a legal research report requires patience
them
pecialized skill. The researcher penetrates his thoughts into the complicated norms and compare
 410 | LEGAL EDuCATION AND ReSEARCH MeTHODOLoGY

with the social attitude. Than he express them in a language, which can be well perceived
readers and evaluators. An expert may understand the technical terms, but common people ma
Thus the researcher prefer simple language, which may be well addressed to all i.e. laymen, scien
experts etc. tists,
Legal investigation require, specialized skill to address target audience. Target audience is th.
society in general, comprising experts and layman.therefore, it is highly essential to make farcef
expression in clear, unambiguious terms and soothing language.
According to Manroe and Engelhart-"The report of an investigation not only serves to record
and
communicate the procedure and the results but if fulfils an important function in the
process of
research. In the act of writing, if it is well done, the research worker refines his
detailed record facilities the critical testing of the work done. he is interested in
thinking and the
If
work to others, the report must be well written in order to fulfill that communicating his
purpose effectively"
It is well conceived that there is close nexus between well
organized though and effective style off
writing. 1f the researcher possessed effective skill in communication, and scientific character of
material analysis, he can present the research
report most effectively. In the matters of style and form,
research report differs considerably from institution to institution. There are some institutions,
departments and sponsoring agencies, who prescribe their own form and style. Such case researcher
has to present the research report
according to preserve from only. However in other cases, the
researcher has to communicate his ideas with his own
style and forms whatever may be the style and
form, the research report
must be purposive.
Purpose of research report:
The investigator should prepare research
report with some basic
Selltiz and other."The purpose of a report is not communication with purpose. According
to Claire
one sells but communication
with the audience. Audience may be different,
of law has to address the report for vast
particularly in the field of legal research. A researcher
audience, i.e. Sponsoring authority or the institutional
authority and experts, adjudicators, lawyers, Judges, administrators and public in general, whatever
may be the audience, the researcher should prepare the
report to serve the following purpose i.e. ()
What is the goal of the study (ii)What is the expectations of the audience (ii) Whether the report is
well presented (iv)whether the report contains new knowledge ? If above questions are well
the purpose of research have been answereu,
accomplished.
According to Prof B.N.Ghosh, "The purpose of a
report is dissipation of knowledge, broaa
casting of generalization and helping further research in the related field. A research report may oe
helpful to throw some new light which can make the building up of a new hypothesis and thus can
make possible new Theorizing. The
purpose of research is to express whole result of (research) stua
in sufficient detail in a organized manner. The main
goal of the researcher is to find truth and sp
the knowledge in the broader
spectrum to ensure their widest use. Research report should spell ou
finings to satisfy the expectations of the audience. Research report is skillfully prepared for
with an object to answer the presena
question posed in the hypothesis. It contains the basic findings o
outlined through data analysis and
generalization of research phenomena. It is to focus tne re
 REsEARO REPT 1611
uestions
question that are not yet answered. Itis to raise new issues which need to
be answered through further
It is highly essential to unfold theoretical,
research.

and concrete suggestions.

practical
and the policy implications with ciear

researcher should keep some basic principle in mind while

The
making research repa Prof
aN Ghoh says that, "A research report is essentially a scientific document,
and hence must be ciea
erurate and
accurate precise. Confusion, ambiguity, pretentiousness and pomposity must
and prec
be carefuly puaróec
aqainst by a researcher. A research report is not the area of
blooming "Johnsonian verbosity anc
confusion5,Thus, the very purpose of research report is to present research study with expertise siil
d sophistication, which may be appealing to the
and
intellectual mind and touch the imagination f
audience

Guidelines for preparing a research Report:

. It is an artistic presentation
Research Report is an artistic presentation of course: while
researcher often confused He use to feel helplessness i.e. how toarticulating research repor the
a

start, how to summarize hung

contents of research study and how to conclude. All the
with patience. A beginner should verify some questions evaporates from min once he sis
good research report before he starts to write.
Wriing ss
a skill to report before he starts to write.
Writing is a skill to depict one's own
experience and expose
imagination. Like an artists, a good writer express his thought and
to prepare a draft of the experience. Therefore. 2 wrner hes
report for critical consideration. He should make criticel
make scan the fact carefully, His prime consideration examination and
should be, whether he has
properly or not. If necessary, he may make expressed his thought
proper amendments to it. Thereafter, he shouid present the
final draft for the comments of an
expert. Than he should follow the suggestions of the and
make amendments
accordingly. If he is satisfied with contents of the writing and believed expert
thæ whoie
study of research is justified he may go for final
presentation of report. A researcher is an expen of
experts in his area of study. Hence, he is the best judge as to his own
the fact, contents are well findings. lf he is satisñed as v
final print.
organized, logically consistent and the lucidly expressed he shouid
go iar
2. The
wording should be well organized:
In the field of
legal research, words used must be properly guarded. Inierpreration of words
makes the study
significant. Thus using appropriate words and preferring useful quorarion makes the
Tesearch report meaningful and significant. This is very sensitive aspect of the report The research
Snould prefer simple language for correct exposition of though and clear
Sudy. Prof. B.N.Ghosh rightly remarked." A research scholar must essentially understanding of research
know a ood bi of
Uiting. He must have sufficient control over the language, it s literature, grammar and composition. A
ayie that is pleasing from a literacy or aesthetic point of view is an additional quality of researcher, bur
nas no obligation to be colourful or elegant in his writing." Report writing can be compared with
i n g of a judge in delivering judgment, who uses his with all precautions. He uses words wih
ns
skill
rationality. The communication should be purposive as to the scope and ambit. The acumen
eperience of researcher should be properly exposed to achieve the aim of epressing
Curate
findings of research.
412 | LEGAL EDucATION AND REsEaRCH MeTHODOLOGY

3. It should be unambiguous:
The report must be unambiguous at all cost. Even, a report may be at times little
technical. hut s
should not be incomplete or ambiguous. It is advised that, the researcher to take
ho; ofa friendly critio
while finalizing the report. Thus Claire Selltiz and others rightly marked that
"Having at
least
colleague read the report just before the final revision is extremely helpful. Sentences that one
seem
crystal clear to the writer may prove quite confusing to other people, a connection that had seemed
self-evident may strike others non-sequitur. friendly
as a A critic, by pointing out passage that seem
unclear or illogical, and perhaps suggesting ways of remedying the difficulties, can be
an invaluable
aid in achieving the goal of adequate communication.
4. Report should not exaggerate facts:
In
socio-legal research, it is required to expose fact without exaggeration. The researcher should
carefully guard the tendency of exposing sentiments. This tendency may be born out of the spirit of
sensation mongering or out of literary fever. Dr. S.R.Bajpai remarks that,
"Literacy fever leads to too
much figurative language and therefore, some times the plain facts are over stated or
exaggerated. The
other weakness viz- lure of sensationalism is born out of feeling of self-importance. The work of a
research generally depends not on the work but on results produced. If the findings of any
investigation
are not novel or significantly different from the existing norm, they are not considered to be of much
worth and the labour of the investigation foes unrewarded. The fear of this insignificance, drives the
investor to exaggerate facts or say things in a novel way that my catch the attention of people" 6Similarly
one should not express his sentiments, arising out of social survey. Report should avert problem of
communication.
The expression of report should be faultless. The investigator should avoid basic problem of
communication. He should convey major idea through paragraphs. He should avoid faulty sentence
structure, poor punctuations, incorrect spelling and other variations of sentences. Introduction of quotations
and phrases may add to literary flavors, but all attempts should be made not to use them superfluously,
sometimes, literary flavor distort ideas and make sentence vague. Using too many quotations into an
authority-aden text, make the report irrelevant arnd inconsistent. The senternces should begrammaical
correct and well organized in terms of topical unity. It is remarked that, "spewing a disordered jumbie o
raw facts into a report not only fails to convey information to the reader, but also suggests that you have
not grasped the significance of your materials. Only through arduous intellectual effort one o

facts and convey precise ideas, that one may have in his mind"
6. The research should follow conventional rules:
It is essential on the part of the researcher to follow conventional rules in the use of abbreviation
commas inverted commas and use of capital letters.. Similarly footnotes should be used sparin
which enable researchers to substantiate sources of materials and to verify the authenticity ot mat
archer
relied. Sometimes, they are used to present explanatory statements. It is always advised to the rese
and
ue
that, he should
attach much importance to the clarity and expression, than to
ofthoughy
forms. The style, language, pagination, size,, spacing etc add colour to it.
 RESEARCH RePORT 413
Essential Contents of Research Report:

A research report usually follow a standardized format of research report. In every research report we
three main sections.
may find following
1. Preliminary section.

2. Main body of the report and

3. Reference section.
Pauline V. Young Summerised the contents of research report as given below.
A. Introduction:
i. Clear ut statement as to the nature of the study,

ii. Aims
ii. Sources of information (including persons consulted and library material used)
iv. Scope of study.
B. Brief statement of the working hypothesis which guided the study.
C. Explicit definitions of units of study.
D. Brief statements of techniques used in the study.
i. Types of observations used and condition under which observations were made.
ii. Types of schedules formulated and conditions under which information was secured.
ii. Types of case history data secure, their sources, manner of presentation and preliminary analysis
made.
iv. Sampling procedures and conditions of selection and testing for appropriateness, representativeness
and errors,
v. Statistical procedures, sources of statistical data conditions under which they were obtained;

vi. Types of scaling techniques used

E. Brief description of experimental treatment of data and techniques in experiments.

F. Major findings.
G. Major conclusions reached about findings.
H. Special remarks:
i. Problem encountered in gathering the data, classifying them, analyzing them
ii. Possible discrepancies in the data collected.
same topic in same contexts.
Suggestions to subsequent investigators on
ii.

Bibliographical references found useful in study (with annotations)

sheets, sample interviews and the like 7
Appendixes might include sample questionnaires, transcription
Three main section of Research Report.
above lines, they differ considerably in the form
research venture do not follow all the
Although all
institutes or sponsoring authorities prescribe their own
and in the scope of treatment. Some research
 414 ILEGAL EDuCATION AND RESEARCH METHODOLOov
fomat or official manual through which dissertations are
required to be presented.
organizations follow different style and fonm of research report. In academic circles Similar rly, various
we may find
mostly they follow conventional formats and prescribed their own style of ual for
researcher. In such a case, the researcher has to follow the manual, which annual the guidance that,
guidance of th
has been officially
his university or department. Research
report is nothing, but merely exposition of philosophical
adontded by
of research study. observatio
tion
Therefore first steps towards
preparing a report generally based on the organization of
outlines. The outline of the report is a brief sketch or
skeleton of the text. The researcher satisfactory
major divisions and sub-divisions in the form of heading and outlines its
subheadings.
chapters, sections, sub-sections or even paragraphs. This outlines guide the According he sets different
research materials. [The following outlines researcher in arranging the
present the conventional types of format, usually
the academic circles}. In the field of
legal research, the researcher need to follow the formatfollowed in
which he can expose the fact most through
elegantly
and effectively
A. Preliminary Section:
i. Title page.
ii. Preface.
ii. Approval
page or certification.
iv. Acknowledgement
v. Contents page
vi. List of cases.
vii. List of Tables Figures.
B. Main body of the Report or the Text section.
i. Introduction.
a. Statement of problem (significance and nature of study)
b. Purpose of the study.
c.
Assumptions and Delimitations (scope of the study)
d. Definitions and concept
e.
Description of hypotheses.
2. Review of legal literature
a. Analysis of historical or previous research
b. Analysis of contemporary documents or enactment.
3. Designing of study:
a. Brief procedure followed.
b. Methods of collecting data.
c.
Description of tool and instrument.
4. Presentation and data Analysis:
a.
Report of facts (text)
 RESEARCH RePoRT | 415
b. Statistical data

i. Tables
ii. Graphs. Where figures of statistical data are presented.
ii. Maps
iv. Charts.

v. Diagrams
5. Conclusion and suggestions
a. Brief Restatement of problem.
b. Interpretation and generalization.

c. Major findings.
d. Recommendations or suggestions.
6. Reference section.

a. Bibliography
b. Appendix
c. Index.
d. Foot notes etc.

It is deemed necessary to explain the above outline sin detail for the guidance of research
scholars. Above outlines are prepared with the consideration of maintaining chronological order,
coherence and relevancy. Arrangement of ideas need systematic presentation. Therefore, the research
scholars are advised to take critical note, before venturing research report. They are to take assistance
from the experts or guide. It is not possible to take all help from the expet. They can make use of these
theoretical guidance, which may be immense use preparing the research report. An attempt is made to
guide the research scholar through the following presentation.

Preliminary Section:
i. Title page:
The first page of the report is called as cover page or title page. At the top, it contains the name of
the topic or title or research study. Immediately there under continuous the name ofthe degree for which
IS presented. Then appears the chest of the institution where research is carried out. Preceding to it the
and his Roll No. as well as
academic year is to be recorded. In the sequence, full name of the investigator
Than name of the guide with his academic qualification
unversty Registration number is mentioned. name of the institution and address is mentioned. These
and designation is mentioned. At the bottom of the is used. The
mentioned between the margins page and no terminal punctuation
nrormation are
other information is presented by capitalizing the
presented in the capital letters, whereas the
of the topic extends beyond one line. In such a case
nitial letters of principal words. Sometimes the title The investigator should indicate the purpose
aouble-spaced and placed in an inverted pyramid style. size papers are used in
which is precise and alluring. MostlyA4
O ne study. It is advised to chose a title, to make page attractive.
Penting research thesis. Now computer is used
416| LeGAL EDUCATION AND RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

ii. Preference
On this page the investigator ensures that the research work is his original work. It is not
duplicated or copied from any other similar work of any author or any institution. It is truthfu
statement made by the investigator to ensures accuracy or genuinity of the work. Sometimes, it
contains brief statement as to the scope and general character of the research.

ii. Approval page or certification:

Sometimes it is required that the supervisor or guide to certify that, the scholar has carried the
research work, under his guidance or the institution requires an approval shet which to be sealed or
signed by the members of the research committe the researcher allots space for certification.

iv. Acknowledgement page:

As a matter of courtesy, the investigator acknowledges the research guide and the institution from
which he has received assistance in carrying out the research work. He intends to extend his gatitude
to the academic personnel and administrative authorities from whom he has got some help concerning
research pursuits. He intend to express his indebt ness to others who have helped him to carryout the
work in diferent manners. One should appreciate the real contribution of the persons, without which
the work would not have been presented. The researcher should not recognize the routine participation
of the persons i.e. family members, faculty members, librarian and office assistants. The words of
acknowledgment should not be flattery or effusive. It should be gentle and simple.

v. Contents page:
It occupies a very important place in the investigators presentations. It gives an opportunity to the
readers to locate the important section or subject of his choice. It presents a scope to glance the subject
researcher prefers to describe
quickly. It includes chapter heading and sub-headings. Sometimes the
small letters and
topics within sub-headings. All titles and headings are typed in capital letters or with
is
initial letter Each content are followed
capitalized. the correct page citation. The investigator is
by
required to check the correct page numbers. This will be present after the main report is computerized
or typed.
vi. Table of cases:
of the
legal research, the investigator cites some case laws or the some relevant judgments
In the
reference.
High courts or supreme court. Those case laws are required to be presented for immediate ot
They should be with appropriate citation. The citations are consisting of name of journal, year
publication and page numbers. It is helpful for the reader for their further reference.
vii. List of Tables and figures.
If there are some tabular information, maps, graphs, diagrams, their lists are to be given o
separate page. That title of the table, corresponding numbers of the maps etc to be recorded a
appropriate page locations to be presented. Table, maps, diagrams, Graphs present data in the mo

efficient manner. It helps the reader to locate them easily for ready reference.
B. Main body of the Report or the texts:
i. Introduction:
lem
a. Introduction outlines fact about the research study. Introduction states the nature ot tne p
 RESEARCH REPORT | 417

the
and develop lacts regarding the investigations. Generally it contains the reasons behind
choice or selection of the study. n introduction the researcher has to evaluate the study and
narrate the signilicance of the study. Ile has to reler the fact that, the study will be useful
and contribite significant towards the cause and concen of legal education.
b. Statement of the problem:
A statement of the problem is placed in a clear-cut terms and in logical sequence. It helps the
reader to get suficient materials and intlormation relating to researeh problem. The research problem
is finalized alter suflicient review of legal literature, consultations with experts and criticalappreciations
In the ficld of legal research, complex problem of law requires some explanation and elucidation. It
helps the reader to find clear insight into the study from the very beginning. The background of the
problem is well stated in the introduction. It illustrates the justification and significance of the study.
C. Purpose of the study.
A slatement as to the purposes of the study reflects the ideas. It answers the questions as to why
the study has been undertaken for research. The significance of the study is well addressed; it highlights
the points as to the objectives and reasons of the study. The purpose of the study signifies the goal of
the study and gives brief idea about the problem in nutshel.
d. Assumptions and delimitations.
Legal assumptions requires clear statement. It helps to understand the area of investigation. What
will be the area of operation is demarcated. The sources of information and their nature should be well
stated. The delimitation of the area should be justilied. It helps the reader to identify the subject and
it's jurisdiction of operation and scope of the study.
e. Definitions and concepts:
Some important and technical terms requires further explanations. In the field of law, the legislature
uses some words, those have separate meaning. They need little explanations. Similarly, legal concept
need clarification. It opens the eyes of the reader.lt helps the reader to understand the concept and the
importance of the study in the social context.

f. Description of hypothesis.
At the initial stage of research.study the investigator has to draw some inferences. He formulates
some ideas and put some important questions which need to be answered through some evidence.
Those important questions are main issues of hypothesis which require empirical investigations.

Hypotheses require some description for restricting various complex issued involved in the research
and
problem. Restrictions place on it, requires proper justification. It helps to attack main points
leaves the subsidiary points of research study. It makes the study meaningful, without diverting the
attention from the main issues of research problem. Therefore, at the introductory part of the study

is drawn to delimit the study. It time and energy of the investigator and highlights the
saves
hypothesis
important issues involved. It help the researcher in streamlining the data collection and concentrating
on meaningful issues of the problem.
2. Review of Legal literature:
previous research:
a. Analysis of historical incidence or
418 | LEGAL EDUCATION AND RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Research is quest for further

knowledge. Thus the investigator review the legal literature and th
background of the problem. The historical incidence helps the researcher to understand
the prohla
with clear terms. For this he prefers to review various legal documents. if
any research study is found
it helps him to search important issues. How it was dealt and how
findings are made.
changes that have taken place and what are the probable reasons behind the change. A What are the
historical events or research report on the subject indicate the areas of brief analysis
of
agreement and
disagreement, It
provides information as to the existing gaps of knowledge. It helps to augment
which inspire the researcher in an supportive thought
appropriate directions.
b. Analysis of
contemporary documents and enactments;
Law is a changing norm. it
changes to meet the social need. Researcher need to
contemporary documents that has developed to undermine the social analyses
find some convention or some problem. For instance, we
may
specialized
the nation and in the international
report on the legal issues. These documents are available in
sphere. One may find some document those have developed in other
countries of the world order. These documents are
quite important to deal with socio-legal problem.
Similarly the important enactrments may be analyzed. Different states or nations may have enacted
some laws. How those laws are
efficious to mitigate the socio-legal problem needs
analyzing these documents the investigator finds an opportunity to observation. By
emphasize new worthwhile elements to his study. It helps the researcherjustify
his own endeavor and
in different ways i.e. discover
new issues,
complicacy of social problem, dissect the problem in different angles,
tracing out the
and weakness of the
present legislation etc. In a logically structured discussion, it is easy to locategaps
the
problem and set the findings effectively. It helps to apply logical rationale., that
and conclude the research justifies hypothesis
the
study in its wider framework of knowledge.
3 Design of study:
a. Brief procedure followed:
It give detailed description as to the fact
through which the work was completed. The researcher
may present how the data were collected. What is the universe and how
the source of data, what procedure has been sample is collected. What are
taken, who participated and who declined to take part,
what is the reason of
non-participation. He may describe the variables, controls employed and how
variables are manipulated. It will give brief
description relating to the types of data analyzed, reasons
of choosing the particular procedure and how the data
to be presented. In nutshell, it is necessary to
present the brief account of the pilot study and suggestions for
studies. It will provide an opportunity to the reader to know improving the procedures for further
about the procedure of the-study to
it's success and it's failure. It may describe about the record
and trained, before gathering data by them.
observers, interviewers, how they are selected

b. Methods of data gathering:

There are various methods used and techniques applied for gathering data. The researcher has to
justify them, why he preferred the techniques? It has discussed in detail, how the sampling
is applied. Similarly various techniques
techniques like scaling and oppinionaire, schedule and interviews methods
are applied in
gathering data. The investigator has to describe in detail, in which way he has collecte
data. These techniques or methods are used looking to the nature of the problem and sources or
availing the data.
 RESEARCH REPORT | 419

Description
of
tool and data gathering instrument:
He makes clear
theinvestigator briefly describe the data-gathering tools and instruments. the
were used. After describing the investigative instruments, he explains
vnlanation of how they
in gathering data. It may be stated that, complex, haphazard and unintelligible
ocedures employed
procedures employed
tabulation classification is a
data can be systematized through proper classification and
sS of
various items. These classified data
mass

nrocess of arranging data in groups to display unity or affinity of clear

in the torm of table description of data gathering instrument makes the object
p ro

are a arranged
comparative analysis easy.
and make the
4. Presentation and data Analysis:.

Report of (text)
facts
a.
of research report. Data Analysis and interpretation may be presented
This is a very important part size of
chapters. The arrangement of such chapter largely depends on the
in one or in separate made
one has developed during his research work. Analysis and interpretation of data is
information of research.
we will discuss the report of text or facts
the text and statistical figures. First
through
raw data. In the textual
and delightful stage to extract the meaning from the
It is most difficult the variables. One may
out important facts and the relationship between
discussion one has to point evidence form it and further
about the data, if he fine any dependable
make certain generalization observes the i.e.
qualification,
When one states the result of the study, he
explanation accordingly. valid. The main objective of an
situations or limits for which the findings are
precise conditions, are valid or not. If one
finds that
is to observe, whether hypothetical relationships
investigation that they need testing
is unpredictable, one may not his findings and suggests
hypothetical relationship how his findings are
studies. After interpretation of data one has to justify
through independent must be categorized and
inconsistent. Data which is significant to each hypothesis
consistent or Data
information to prove or disprove the hypothesis.
in the ways to reveal the pertinent
interpreted variables. This is
establish relationship between the independent and dependent
must be interpreted to
the relationship, the investigator
to confirm the hypothesis. If the result is contrary or affecting
required this way, one may justify his findings
and contribute
implications. In
has to discuss their possible
the advancement of knowledge.
b. Statistical data or Figures:
above. Apart from
of data in textual form has been discussed
The reporting and interpretation
statistical devices. The statistical data are
textual presentation, data critically reported through
are
to establish relationships
the following devices, those relatively simple
presented through figures by
between variables.
i. Tables: facts through
data in most effective way than presenting
Tables are popular device for presenting information most efficiently. If it is well
be drawn to convey
verbal disposition. A good table can and interpret the data significantly.
it is easy for the reader to grasp
complied and arranged properly, be presented through
through tables. Tables can
Statistical data can be systematically presented with textual
and columns. Table may be placed on a single page along
vertical and horizontal rows
with textual discussion: Tables
as close as possible along
materials. Tables are preferably presented
420 | LEGAL EDuCATION AND RESEARCH METHO0oLOGY

are to be numbered and title or caption should be

Footnotes
given toindicate the nature of the data
illustrated
are placed just below the table to explain items presented in the table.
ii. Graphs:
Graphs are commonest form of articulating figures. For drawing
Graphs are drawn either horizontally or vertically. The Horizontal axis graphsmeasures
special paper is used.
a

variables and vertical axis measure the characteristics. usually the independent
The figures formed by lines or curve Chapter-21 convey various aspect of graphs.
connecting the points. Graphs are useful to compare the variables.
Like table, graphs are useful to record the
a glance.
figures and it is very easy for the readers to grasp the data at
Graphs are presented along with textual discussion. Graphs are also numbered
and each
graphs contain the caption and the footnotes are placed just below the on
graphs.
ii. Maps:
Maps help the researcher to locate the geographic
made by use of dots., circles and the other representation of data. Investigation may be
symbols. The characteristics of area
shading and crosshatching. Map provides pictorial appearance of the data. It catchesrepresentation
the
by
reader. It makes the reading easy. sight of the
Maps are also numbered and appropriate description helps the
reader to get all information about
map. Maps are attractive and describes the data most
iv. Charts and
efficiently.
Circles
Charts reflects the division of various units and it
of different variables. It shows
gives detail information as to the characteristics
simple percentile distribution of various figures i.e what is the delinquency
rate in different states and how
govt. is allocating it revenue to different states can be shown in the
charts. Different "components are
arranged in a clockwise direction and radius id drawn vertically.
The proportion of data is presented by the number of
degrees in each segment of the 360ú circle. Each
charts should be given numbers and
appropriate description should be provided.
v. Diagrams:

Diagrams presents pictorial views relating to, various complex and quantitative data for
conceptualizing cold figures in an attractive and lucrative manner. Diagrams represent homogeneous
data which are easily put to comparison. Their size
changes with the change in scales and style of
presentation. Diagrams helps us to visualize whole story of numerical figures at a single glance.
Diagrams are presented in many ways i.e. pictograms, Cartograms, Dimensional grams etc. Each
diagram should have title and foot note to indicate brief facts. Diagram should be numbered and
source of data should be indicated.
Diagrams are attractive and impressive to read the variables. They are easily intelligible, even to
an ordinary reader. It is helpful to draw a simple diagrams. It helps the researcher by way of analytical
thinking on critical investigations. It saves time and energy and stimulates interest of the reader.it has
been discussed well in a separate chapter.
5. Summary and conclusion
The summary is the most significant and most difficult portion of the research report. Summary
presents important points of the study. Readers scan the summary to have an overview of the research
problem and thereby determines the usefulness of the study. If the readers find that it hods some
 rESEARCH REPORT| 421
aortinent points to serve their purpose, they examine the remaining parts of the study. While preparing
mary and conclusion following points to be taken for consideration.
Summ

a. Brief Restatement of problem:

The researcher should give brief statement of the problem. He should outline the procedure used
in the investigation. It is required to submit the entire development of the study in nutshell and express
the means of findings. He should also mention the way through which conclusions are drawn. The
conclusions are stated precisely and he has to describe how the hypotheses are tested. He should not
narrate all procedure or produce all evidence through which conclusion is drawn if the conclusions
modify the previous theory, he should discuss suchimplication.

b. Interpretation and generalization:

Interpretation calls for a critical review of the materials of research. It verified complete statistics.
Inappropriate and incomplete data always proved to be dangerous and leading to wrong conclusion.
Therefore the interpreter should verily the procedure adopted, various technique and tools applied in
data collection and treatment of data. Interpreter should spell out the cope of the study and clarify the
intention of the research work. He should supply the true meaning to the relevant facts. After
interpretation, researcher moves for generalization. Generalization ensures growth, change and
development. He records the opinion ofexperts and makes comparison of the contemporary research
findings. Researcher describes and signifies clearly the experimental treatment ofthe data. It enlighten
readers to note how the conclusion is drawn.
c. Major findings:
Once generalization is made, the investigator moves for conclusion,. Conclusion is the most delightful
part of the research pursuits. In drawing conclusion, the researcher has to identify negative and positive
aspect ofthe study. It is a final stage to identify value loaded data and concealed facts. He should locate
all sorts of bias and trace out positive points. In stating the conclusion, the researcher has to describe the
major findings. He should specity the major contribution to the field of knowledge and research.

d. Recommendations and suggestion:

Recommendation and suggestions enlighten the readers and insights the researcher for further
research. It serves as a guidelines for the future study. It indicates how the topic remained uncovered
and what contains the researcher to cover the points. It contains promising side-problems. It recommends
steps to be taken in further study. It suggests appropriate remedy for the administrative compliance.

C. REFERENCE SECTION:
It follow the main body of the report. The
Every research study contains reference materials.
researcher acknowledge the fact as to the referential study materials, which he has relied, while
for the reader for further study. This portion
pursuing research study. This portion is equally important
Is discussed on the following heads.
a. Bibliography:

with a new page proceeding Bibliography contains the

the research report.
Bibliography begins
record the study materials or legal literature utilized in
00Oklist. Bibliography provides fair chance to numbers of the text and it is a part and parcel of
C
preparation of legal research.lt follows the page
 422 | LEGAL EDuCATION AND REsEarCH METHODOLOGY

the research thesis. The word

"Bibliography" is
The method of reference is followed as under.
captioned in capital letters and centered on the na
page
i. Name of author:
Reference cited in the
are
bibliography by
margin. When two or more authors names are giving
the last name(s) of the
author(s) at the left hand
author's name to be cited as mentioned above reported for joint work i.e. books or
articles etc., first
and the other authors' names are to be
first names, then the second name. If
the book is edited by an author or given starting with
and ed" or "eds" is added within the authors, his or their name written
brackets. When more than one work is listed in
references are segregated by Semicolons. All
materials referred in the text are to be listedparentheses, the
ii. Title of the book: alphabetically.
After the name of the author, title of
the book is written.
single inverted comma and followed the edition numbers. A full The title of the book(s) is written with
stop is placed at the end of the title book.
If any article(s) is referred in
Parentheses, its title is to be written with inverted
by the names of the magazine or Journal and it's commas, followed
volume.
ii. Publishers name and address:
The hames of the
publisher should be written and follow by it's address of
marked after the place of
publication and a fuli stop is marked at the end of publication. A colon.is
journal, editor name and
the ofplace publication should publisher's address. If it is a
be written.
iv. Year of
publication:
If it is book year of
publication should be written. if it is a
periodicals or daily news paper, date should be written. At the journal month should be written. if it is
end full stop should be
a

v. Page number: marked.

If any materials have been
number should be marked.
quoted in the parentheses, it should marked with colons
and page
Indian researcher generally folow the
above method while
may find different manual is preparing Bibliography. however, we
prescribed for publication. American
followed the Specific guidelines for the various Psychological Association (1983)
types of works.
b. Appendix-

Appendix contains the supplementary materials for the of further reference.

unimportant materials are not placed in the text. Sometimespurpose
the researcher feel
Generally
materials should be attached with the Parenthesis. In that, some relevant
such cases, it is advised to
appendix. Appendix begins with place them in the
page, preceeding the bibliography. Each appendix is numbered
new
and started on a new
page. Appendix should be listed in the contents page with
number. Following materials placed in appropriate page
are
appendix.
i. Statistical tables
ii. Enactment, Committee Reports or any other reports.
ii. Questionnairs, schedule etc.
 RESEARCH REPORT | 423
iv. Charts, picture etc.

v. Other significant document having evidential value.

c. Index;
Index follows the appendix. index OCgins with new page and page number continues. Index

contains important words, doctrines, proverbial reference and reference materials. It is placed with
anpropriate page numbers. IT tne word or aoctrines have appeared in several pages, the researcher
notes all page numbers. On the rignt side of the words or doctrines. It contains glossary of words,
which the reader can locate them easily by referring the index. Index should be arranged at the last and

placed in the alphabetical order.

Index should be arranged as under
Action research, ..... 15

Appendix,. ..320
Applied Research, .125

Bias, 35

Case study, . . . ..210-211

Correlation -... 120
Data analysis, ... ...155-156
Ex. Post facto law, .. 68

Hypothesis, .. .....127-128
Interpretation of statues-..... ..137
Writing style of research Report,.... 246-252
Z test, . . . ....270,273,284 etc.
d. Footnotes:
Foot notes are place at the foot of the page. They are used as reference guide or short explanations
to the points under discussion. Footnotes enumerates authors names in natural order, followed the
nameofthe book, article, page Nos and publisher's name, edition and the year. Footnotes are used as
important devices and serve following purposes. Investigator substantiate his presentation by citing
other authorities, to attach credit to the sources of material quoted or paraphrased. Footnotes provide
specific sources to verify the authenticity and accuracy of materials used. Those serve as a explanatory
note of the text. Some institutions and department followed different procedure of inserting footnotes.
ACCordingly, they place all citations on a single page at the end of each chapter.

Some important guidelines:

Style of writing:
Style of writing should be clears, concise and objective. Careful proof reading is necessary to
prepare final report. It is expected to use corect usage. It is expected to use conventional pattern of
wriung often used in academic
circle
 424 | LEGAL EDUCATION AND REsEARCH MeTHODoLOGY

2. Tables and figures:

Table and figures should be
presented properly. They should be organized or
designed to
accurate and undistorted picture of data. present
3. Proper Pagination:
Each page of the research
report are given a number in the right corner. It is placed one
incl below the top of the page. title pages are not assigned withupper a number.
Roman numerals i.e. They are identified by
(i,ii,iii,iv,v etc). Correct pagination is made after finalization of edited
4. copy.
Typographic presentation:
Each research report should be
presented with good quality bond paper 8 %" by 11 size one
side of the sheet should be
used. All margins should be 1 S" inches i.e. "in
side. All materials should be Top, bottom, left side and right
neatly type written or computerized and should be double
should not be divided at the end of the line unless they interfere with the spaced. Words
over is manageable margin. A few spaces of run
5. Use of standard abbreviations:
The researcher should be aware of following standard abbreviations. They should
carefully to avoid some common errors. use them
Anon
Anonymous Journals
C(circu): about( approximate date) A.I.R- AIl India
ef. Reporter
Col.cols. Compare
column(s)
B.U- Berhampur University
ed.eds. Bombay University
editions(s) B.H.U: Banaras Hindu
et-al and others University
et-se and the following
CCC-Current Civil cases
fig:figs Cr.L.J-Criminal Law Journal
figure(s) C.L.T-Cuttack Law Times
ibid Some as above
illus illustrated C.P.J-Consumer Protection Journal
infra below
i.e. that is
loc. Cit the place cited
op. cit previously cited
P.pp Page, Pages
par. Pars paragraph(s)
Supra above
Vide see
N.B. Noted below.
t is not possible to give exhaustive list of abbreviation. Above cited abbreviations are meant for
illustration only.
Evaluation of Research Report:
Writing a research Report by a legal research scholar is a valuable experience and difficult job.
 RESEARCH REPORT 425
fa rent university in India require to submit dissertation paper at the end semester examination.
are submitted before awarding LL.M and M.Phil
Mostly
these papers degree in Law. Generally such
are prepared
by referring previous research report and taking suggestions from Senior Students
reports
d teachers. A research report may be collected from library for reference. Yet it is deemed necessary
teachers. A research
and
toSuggest some points before preparing research report. A beginner should take following note for
evaluating their own research report. it will help them to score good marks and gain experience in
aring a thesis for Doctoral degree in law. While preparing a research report one should ask
self.
following questions to
1. As to title, synopsis and Abstract.
i. Are the title clear and concise?
i. Is the synopsis stated problem effectively?
ii. Is the abstract briefly narrates the entire study precisely
iv Are the important terms are clearly defined?
v. Is the significance of the study properly recognized?
2. Research Design and Hypothesis:
i. Is the research design described in detail?
i. Is the design tested after Review of literature?
ii. Is it adequately noted ?
iv. Are the hypothesis clearly stated and well covered?
v. Are they testable?
3. Methods:
i. Are the methods significant ?
ii. Are the relevant variables recognized?
i Are the samples well described?
iv. Are the data-gathering instruments are appropriate ?
v. Are the methods adequate to cover the topic?
4. Analysis of Data:
. Is the statistical data got proper treatment?
ii. are the data properly interpreted?
ii. Is the analysis of data relationship logical and perceptive?
iv. Are the errors properly determined?
V. Are the assumptions, limitations are properly stated ?

vi. Are the tables, graphs, diagrams are properiy interpreted?

5. Discussion and conclusion:
clear?
iIs the discussion relevant, concise and
is. Is the analysis objective and appropriate
426 LEGAL EDucATION AND REsEARCH MeTHODOLoGY

ii. Is the problem restated properly ?

iv. Is the hypothesis tested adequately ?
v. Are the findings justified by the data presented and analyzed?
vi. Is the topic properly generalized?
vii. ls the conclusion signif+cant ?
vii. Can the findings inspire for future research?
ix. Are the different parts of the study well related?
x. Are the style of writing followed the guiding principles?

Conclusion:-
Above questions need proper consideration. The evolution of research project needs thorouph
reading. Analytical proceedings as suggested need proper examination. Critical evaluation of researcher's
report helps to develop efficiency. It helps them to be competent and skillful. It may be concluded that
report writing is an art one can master them by keen observation and practice.

Footnotes:-
1.
1 Claire Selltiz, Marie Jahoda, morton Deutsch and Stuard W. cook, research Methods in social Relations,
442(Ed. Holt, Rinehart and Winston, New your, 1964
2.
2. ProfB.NGhose, Collection and Analysis of data, Ed. By S.K.Verma. and M.A. Wani, ILI, New Delhi
2006 reprint at P483.
3. Ibid at P. 485
4. Ibid-at p.486
5. Supra Note at P.454.
6. Methods of Social Survey and Research, kitab Ghar, 15th ed at 404
7. Scientific social survey and research, prentice Hall of pvt Itd, New Delhi. 1984
8. Best W. John and James V.Kahn-
Research in Education' 6th ed, 1992 at P. 337 Prentice-Hall of India PVt Ltd N.Delhi.