Key point: I used it because others used it is not a defence.
Prepare a clear methodology defence using fit, evidence, limitation and mitigation rather than saying that previous researchers used the method.
Explain fit to the research question
Begin with the exact information the study needed. Show why the chosen design, participants, instrument and analysis could provide that information more appropriately than realistic alternatives.
State the evidence the method can produce
Clarify whether the design estimates prevalence, examines association, compares groups, explores experience or develops explanation. Match the strength of the claim to the design.
Acknowledge a real limitation
No method is perfect. Identify an important limitation and explain how it affects interpretation. Examiners usually value informed judgement more than unrealistic claims of methodological perfection.
Explain mitigation and consequences
Describe the steps used to manage the limitation and how the conclusion was restricted. Practise answering follow up questions about sampling, validity, reliability, ethics and analysis.
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About the author
Kazeem Afen
Kazeem Afen is an academic research consultant at Speedrise Research. He supports undergraduate, master’s and doctoral researchers with research development, academic editing, quantitative and qualitative analysis, presentations and responsible manuscript revision.