Understanding Scientific Studies

An Interactive Guide to Reading & Communicating Science

Types of Studies

The design of a study determines the strength of its conclusions. Understanding the type is the first step to critical appraisal.

Observational Studies

Researchers observe subjects and measure variables without intervening. These can show associations and correlations, but not causation.

  • Cohort Studies: Follows a group (cohort) over time to see how exposures affect outcomes.
  • Case-Control Studies: Compares people with a condition (cases) to those without (controls) to look back at past exposures.
  • Cross-Sectional Studies: Looks at data from a population at one specific point in time, like a snapshot.

Key Terminology

Hypothesis

A testable prediction about the relationship between variables.

P-value & Significance

The p-value is the probability a result occurred by chance. A small p-value (e.g., <0.05) suggests it's statistically significant, but not necessarily important.

Correlation vs. Causation

Correlation is a relationship between two variables. Causation is when one variable directly causes a change in another. Don't mix them up!

Control Group

The group in an experiment that does not receive the treatment, serving as a baseline for comparison.

Peer Review

Evaluation of scientific work by other experts in the same field to ensure quality and validity before publication.

Effect Size

Measures the magnitude (the 'how much') of an effect, which is often more important than just statistical significance.

How to Read a Scientific Paper

1

Abstract

Read this first. It's a full summary: purpose, methods, results, and conclusion.

2

Introduction

Understand the 'why'. It provides background and states the hypothesis.

3

Methods

Critically assess the 'how'. Is the study design appropriate? Who was studied?

4

Results

Look at the objective findings. This section presents raw data, often in tables and graphs, without interpretation.

5

Discussion / Conclusion

Interpret the 'so what'. Authors discuss implications, limitations, and future research.

Simplify The Science

Paste a confusing snippet from a study below and let our AI-powered helper explain it in simple terms.

Spot The Bias

Test your critical thinking skills. Read the scenario and pick the most likely issue. Our AI helper will explain the answer.

"A new study published by 'The Soda Council' finds that daily soda consumption is not linked to weight gain in adults. The study surveyed 5,000 people about their diets."

What's the most likely issue here?

Communicating Your Findings

  • Start with the 'So What?' - explain why it matters.
  • Use analogies and simple language instead of jargon.
  • Clearly distinguish correlation from causation.
  • Acknowledge limitations and what the study *doesn't* tell us.
  • Focus on the effect size (the magnitude) to explain practical importance.