how to write practical implications of research

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How to Write an “Implications of Research” Section

4-minute read

• 24th October 2022

When writing research papers , theses, journal articles, or dissertations, one cannot ignore the importance of research. You’re not only the writer of your paper but also the researcher ! Moreover, it’s not just about researching your topic, filling your paper with abundant citations, and topping it off with a reference list. You need to dig deep into your research and provide related literature on your topic. You must also discuss the implications of your research.

Interested in learning more about implications of research? Read on! This post will define these implications, why they’re essential, and most importantly, how to write them. If you’re a visual learner, you might enjoy this video .

What Are Implications of Research?

Implications are potential questions from your research that justify further exploration. They state how your research findings could affect policies, theories, and/or practices.

Implications can either be practical or theoretical. The former is the direct impact of your findings on related practices, whereas the latter is the impact on the theories you have chosen in your study.

Example of a practical implication: If you’re researching a teaching method, the implication would be how teachers can use that method based on your findings.

Example of a theoretical implication: You added a new variable to Theory A so that it could cover a broader perspective.

Finally, implications aren’t the same as recommendations, and it’s important to know the difference between them .

Questions you should consider when developing the implications section:

●  What is the significance of your findings?

●  How do the findings of your study fit with or contradict existing research on this topic?

●  Do your results support or challenge existing theories? If they support them, what new information do they contribute? If they challenge them, why do you think that is?

Why Are Implications Important?

You need implications for the following reasons:

● To reflect on what you set out to accomplish in the first place

● To see if there’s a change to the initial perspective, now that you’ve collected the data

● To inform your audience, who might be curious about the impact of your research

How to Write an Implications Section

Usually, you write your research implications in the discussion section of your paper. This is the section before the conclusion when you discuss all the hard work you did. Additionally, you’ll write the implications section before making recommendations for future research.

Implications should begin with what you discovered in your study, which differs from what previous studies found, and then you can discuss the implications of your findings.

Your implications need to be specific, meaning you should show the exact contributions of your research and why they’re essential. They should also begin with a specific sentence structure.

Examples of starting implication sentences:

●  These results build on existing evidence of…

●  These findings suggest that…

●  These results should be considered when…

●  While previous research has focused on x , these results show that y …

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You should write your implications after you’ve stated the results of your research. In other words, summarize your findings and put them into context.

The result : One study found that young learners enjoy short activities when learning a foreign language.

The implications : This result suggests that foreign language teachers use short activities when teaching young learners, as they positively affect learning.

 Example 2

The result : One study found that people who listen to calming music just before going to bed sleep better than those who watch TV.

The implications : These findings suggest that listening to calming music aids sleep quality, whereas watching TV does not.

To summarize, remember these key pointers:

●  Implications are the impact of your findings on the field of study.

●  They serve as a reflection of the research you’ve conducted.              

●  They show the specific contributions of your findings and why the audience should care.

●  They can be practical or theoretical.

●  They aren’t the same as recommendations.

●  You write them in the discussion section of the paper.

●  State the results first, and then state their implications.

Are you currently working on a thesis or dissertation? Once you’ve finished your paper (implications included), our proofreading team can help ensure that your spelling, punctuation, and grammar are perfect. Consider submitting a 500-word document for free.

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Research Implications 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Writing for Impact

• November 5, 2024

Dr. Marvin L. Smith

When conducting research , collecting data is just the beginning. 

The real impact lies in understanding the research implications — the practical, theoretical, and future research possibilities that emerge from your findings. 

In this article, we’ll explore the different types of research implications , provide examples, and guide you on how to write implications in research that inform, inspire, and drive meaningful change.

Table of Contents

What are the research implications?

Research implications are the potential consequences, effects, or outcomes that arise from research findings, suggesting practical applications, theoretical insights, or directions for future research.

Research implications highlight your research’s “so what” factor, explaining why your findings matter, who they affect, and how they can be used to drive positive change. 

They provide:

• A bridge between research and practice.
• Helping to translate complex research findings into actionable recommendations.
• Practical solutions.
• New avenues for investigation.

Types of implications in research

Research implications can be categorized into several types, each with its own significance and applications. Understanding these types can help researchers better articulate the significance of their findings and guide stakeholders in implementing the results.

1. Practical Implications

Practical implications refer to the potential applications of research findings in real-world settings. They highlight how research results can be used to inform policy, improve practices, or develop new products and services.  

Practical implications are often the most tangible and immediate, providing actionable insights that can be used to address pressing problems or needs. 

For example, a study on the effectiveness of a new teaching method might have practical implications for educators, policymakers, and school administrators, informing the development of new educational programs or policies.

2. Theoretical Implications

Theoretical implications, on the other hand, relate to the conceptual or explanatory significance of research findings. They highlight how research results contribute to developing or refining theories, models, or frameworks. 

Theoretical implications are essential for advancing knowledge and understanding in a particular field, as they provide a foundation for future research and inform the development of new hypotheses. 

For instance, a study on the relationship between climate change and human migration might have theoretical implications for understanding the complex dynamics between environmental and social systems.

3. Implications for Future Research

Implications for future research refer to the potential avenues for further investigation that arise from research findings. They highlight areas where more research is needed, identify gaps in current knowledge, and provide a foundation for future studies. 

Implications for future research are essential for advancing knowledge and understanding in a particular field, as they guide the development of new research questions, hypotheses, and methodologies. 

For example, a study on the effects of social media on mental health might have implications for future research on the topic, such as investigating the impact of specific social media platforms or exploring the role of social media in mental health interventions.

4. Policy Implications

Policy implications refer to the potential impact of research findings on policy decisions, laws, or regulations. They highlight how research results can inform policy development, implementation, or evaluation.  

Policy implications are critical for ensuring that research findings are translated into actionable policies that address pressing social, economic, or environmental issues. 

For instance, a study on the economic benefits of investing in renewable energy might have policy implications for governments, guiding the development of energy policies and regulations.

5. Social Implications

Social implications refer to the potential impact of research findings on society, including social norms, values, and behaviors. They highlight how research results can inform social change, promote social justice, or address social inequalities.  

Social implications are essential for ensuring that research findings are translated into positive social outcomes, such as improving public health, reducing poverty, or promoting human rights.

For example, a study on the effects of systemic racism on health outcomes might have social implications for addressing health disparities and promoting social justice.

Implications vs recommendations

In research, implications and recommendations are two related but distinct concepts. While both are derived from research findings, they serve different purposes and characteristics. Understanding the difference between implications and recommendations is essential for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to translate research into practice effectively.

Implications:

Implications are the potential consequences, effects, or outcomes that arise from research findings. They highlight the research results’ significance, relevance, and potential applications. Implications are often more abstract and broader in scope, providing a foundation for future research, policy development, or practical applications.

Recommendations:

Recommendations, on the other hand, are specific, actionable suggestions that arise from research findings. They provide concrete guidance for policymakers, practitioners, or other stakeholders on how to address a particular issue or problem. Recommendations are often more specific and narrower in scope, focusing on a specific course of action or intervention.

How to write research implications

Writing research implications is crucial in communicating the significance and potential applications of your research findings. Effective implications can help researchers, policymakers, and practitioners understand the relevance and importance of your research and guide the development of future research, policy, or practice. 

Here are some tips on how to write research implications :

• Start with a clear understanding of your research findings : Before writing implications, ensure you clearly understand your research results and their significance.
• Identify the key stakeholders : Consider who the key stakeholders are for your research, including policymakers, practitioners, researchers, or the general public.
• Focus on the most important findings : Highlight the most significant and relevant findings that have implications for your stakeholders.
• Use clear and concise language : Avoid technical jargon or complex terminology that may be difficult for non-experts to understand.
• Be specific and concrete : Avoid vague or general statements; instead, provide specific and concrete examples of how your research findings can be applied.
• Consider multiple perspectives : Think about the potential implications of your research from different perspectives, including economic, social, environmental, or cultural.

Research implication example

A study on the effectiveness of a new teaching method for improving student outcomes might have the following implications:

• Practical implications : The new teaching method can be implemented in schools to improve student outcomes, particularly for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
• Theoretical implications : The study’s findings contribute to understanding how students learn and how teachers can effectively support student learning.
• Policy implications : The study’s findings suggest policymakers should consider investing in teacher training programs focusing on the new teaching method.
• Future research implications : Future research should investigate the long-term effects of the new teaching method on student outcomes and explore how to scale up the method to reach more students.

Example of Research Implications in a Research Paper:

“The findings of this study have several implications for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers. Firstly, the results suggest that the new teaching method effectively improves student outcomes, particularly for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. This has practical implications for schools and teachers, who can implement the method to improve student learning. The study’s findings also contribute to understanding how students learn and how teachers can effectively support student learning, with theoretical implications for developing new teaching methods. Furthermore, the study’s results suggest that policymakers should consider investing in teacher training programs that focus on the new teaching method, with policy implications for education policy. Finally, the study’s findings highlight the need for future research to investigate the long-term effects of the new teaching method on student outcomes, and explore how to scale up the method to reach more students.”

Tips for Writing Implications in a Research Paper:

• Use a clear and concise writing style
• Use headings and subheadings to organize your implications
• Use bullet points or numbered lists to highlight key implications
• Use concrete examples and case studies to illustrate your implications
• Use tables, figures , or graphs to visualize your implications
• Consider using a separate section for implications or integrating them throughout the paper.

Where do you add research implications in your paper?

Research implications can be added in various sections of a research paper, depending on the purpose and scope of the study. 

Here are some common places where research implications can be added:

• Introduction : In the introduction section , research implications can be mentioned to provide context and relevance to the study.
• Discussion : The discussion section is a common place to add research implications as the results are interpreted and implications are drawn.
• Conclusion : The conclusion section is another place where research implications can be added, as it summarizes the main findings and implications of the study.
• Recommendations : Some papers may have a separate section for recommendations, which can include research implications.
• Future Research Directions : This section can include research implications that suggest avenues for future research.
• Policy Implications : If the study has policy implications, a separate section can be added to discuss these implications.
• Practical Implications : Similarly, if the study has practical implications, a separate section can be added to discuss these implications.

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• Research Paper Guide

How to Write Implications in Research

• Implications definition
• Recommendations vs implications
• Types of implications in research
• Step-by-step implications writing guide

Research implications examples

What the implications of the research definition?

• Theoretical implications stand for all the new additions to theories that have already been presented in the past. At the same time, one can use a totally new theory that provides a background and a framework for a study.
• Practical implications are about potential consequences that show the practical side of things.

Recommendations VS Implications

• Implied content versus proposed writing. It means that an implication should provide an outcome from your study. The recommendation is always based on the outcome, along with your words as a personal opinion.
• Potential impact a study may have versus a specific act. When you are composing your research paper, your implications have the purpose of discussing how the findings of the study matter. They should tell how your research has an impact on the subject that you address. Now, unlike the implications section of the research paper, recommendations refer to peculiar actions or steps you must take. They should be based on your opinion precisely and talk about what must be done since your research findings confirm that.

What are the types of implications in research?

• Political implications. These are mostly common for Law and Political Sciences students basing implications on a certain study, a speech, or legislative standards. It is a case when implications and recommendations can also be used to achieve an efficient result.
• Technological implications. When dealing with a technological implication, it serves as special implications for future research manuals where you discuss the study with several examples. Do not use a methodology in this section, as it can only be mentioned briefly.
• Findings related to policies. When you have implemented a special policy or you are dealing with a medical or legal finding, you should add it to your policy. Adding an implications section is necessary when it must be highlighted in your research.
• Topical (subject) implications. These are based on your subject and serve as a way to clarify things or as a method to narrow things down by supporting the finding before it is linked to a thesis statement or your main scientific argument.

Step-by-step implications in research writing guide

Step 1: talk about what has been discovered in your research., step 2: name the differences compared to what previous studies have found., step 3: discuss the implications of your findings., step 4: add specific information to showcase your contributions., step 5: match it with your discussion and thesis statement..

Green energy can benefit from the use of vertical turbines versus horizontal turbines due to construction methods and saving costs. 

The use of AI-based apps that contain repetition and grammar-checking will help ESL students and learners with special needs. 

Most studies provide more research on the social emphasis that influences the problem of bullying in the village area. It points out that most people have different cultural behavior where the problem of bullying is approached differently.

If you encounter challenges in terms of precise replication, you can use a CR genetic code to follow the policies used in 1994. Considering the theoretical limitations, it is necessary to provide exact theories and practical steps. It will help to resolve the challenge and compare what has been available back then. It will help to trace the temporal backline. 

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How to Write Clear and Impactful Implications for Research?

Table of contents

• 1 What Are the Research Implications?
• 2 Importance of Implications in Research
• 3 Key Features of Further Research Implications
• 4 Types of Research Implications
• 5 Differences Between Implications and Recommendations
• 6 How to Write Research Implications
• 7 Things to Include Implications in Your Research Paper
• 8 Examples of Theoretical Implications in Research
• 9 Common Mistakes to Avoid
• 10 Research Paper Writer Assistance

Explore the critical implications of research in this comprehensive guide, designed to enhance your understanding and improve your outcomes. Read more now!

Research expands our understanding of the world around us. However, the research’s true impact lies in its findings’ implications. Implications in research act as a bridge between data and action, providing insight into what the research means for the field, future studies, and real-world applications.

Researchers explain the “why” behind their findings, showing their study matters beyond academic circles. Including clearly defined implications is essential, as reviewers or readers often assess this to understand the research’s relevance.

This article explores the importance of research implications, types, and practical qualities. Additionally, it covers where to include them in a research paper, provides examples, and discusses common mistakes to avoid.

What Are the Research Implications?

Research implications are the consequences or effects of a study’s findings, explaining how those findings may impact future research, real-world applications, or even policy-making. While results represent the direct outcomes of data analysis, implications explore how these results extend to broader contexts or influence future inquiries.

Researchers connect their findings to practical or theoretical outcomes through implications. This linkage can inform further studies, drive policy updates, or provide innovative solutions to persistent challenges. It’s important to state these implications clearly to avoid misunderstandings or missed insights, especially when readers may not be experts.

Importance of Implications in Research

Including implications in research papers is crucial for several reasons:

• Clarifying Impact . Theoretical implications help convey the broader significance of a study, enhancing its perceived value.
• Guiding Future Research . They often highlight gaps or opportunities, inspiring additional studies.
• Influencing Policy and Practice . Practical implications suggest how findings might be applied in policy, healthcare, education, or other fields.
• Demonstrating Relevance . Clearly defined implications underscore why the research matters, helping the work gain traction beyond academia.

Implications make research findings more accessible and relevant, bridging the gap between theory and application.

Key Features of Further Research Implications

As a researcher, it’s essential to establish a strong foundation for your study by:

• Providing clear background information;
• Presenting a compelling rationale for your research;
• Crafting a precise problem statement to highlight the relevance and importance of your work.

From there, it is crucial to guide the reader smoothly through the entire study. This involves answering all methodological questions and ensuring that the narrative flows logically from beginning to end.

Compelling research theoretical implications should meet the following criteria to maximize impact:

Implications that embody these characteristics are more accessible for readers to understand and apply in real-world contexts.

However, many authors struggle when it’s time to conclude. Despite carefully summarizing findings in the discussion section, relating them to the initial research questions, and connecting them to previous studies, something might still feel incomplete.

This often happens when the author, weary from reaching the end, can’t identify what’s missing and ends up with a conclusion that merely rehashes prior points. This common challenge can leave the conclusion lacking impact or fresh insight.

Types of Research Implications

Research implications can take various forms, depending on the study’s focus. Broadly, implications fall into two categories:

• Practical Implications address real-world applications and suggest how findings might improve practices or policies.
• Theoretical Implications offer insights that could influence existing theories or frameworks.

Beyond these broad categories, research implications can be further specified based on their impact area:

• Political Implications . How findings could inform governance or policy decisions.
• Social Implications . Effects on social norms, behaviors, or cultural practices.
• Technological Implications . Influence on technological advancements or innovations.
• Clinical Implications . Relevance to healthcare practices, treatments, or patient care.
• Commercial or Business Implications . Strategic business insights or market impact.
• Implications for Future Research . Suggestions for further research directions or methodological adjustments.

Carefully identifying the type of implications helps ensure they remain relevant and appropriately targeted to the study’s goals.

Differences Between Implications and Recommendations

Although closely related, research implications and recommendations serve distinct functions:

Theoretical and practical implications explain the immense significance, while recommendations give practical advice based on the findings.

How to Write Research Implications

Crafting well-defined implications requires connecting your further research findings to their broader impacts. Here’s a step-by-step approach:

• Summarize Key Findings . Outline the primary results to form the basis of your implications.
• Identify Broader Impact . Consider how these findings may influence theory, practice, or policy.
• Support with Evidence . Use data from your research to substantiate each implication.
• Consider Limitations . Acknowledge the study’s limitations and ensure the implications are realistic.
• Review for Clarity . Write in simple language, avoiding overly complex or vague statements.

Research implications are crucial for advancing knowledge and refining existing theories. By analyzing key findings from previous research, scholars can identify gaps that inform research recommendations for subsequent research.

These recommendations often guide the design and focus of future research studies, ensuring they address both practical and theoretical implications. This cyclical process enhances the understanding of core issues and bridges the gap between theory and application, fostering meaningful advancements in the field.

Things to Include Implications in Your Research Paper

Implications are the potential consequences or effects of your research findings. They are crucial for highlighting your work’s significance and suggesting future research directions.

Standard sections to include implications:

Tips for writing solid implications:

• Be specific. Clearly state the practical or theoretical implications of your findings.
• Avoid overstating. Be cautious not to claim more than your research supports.
• Consider the audience. Tailor practical implications to the specific interests of your readers.
• Connect to the broader field. Show how your findings contribute to the existing body of knowledge.
• Highlight the potential impact. Discuss how your research can influence policy, practice, or further research.

By effectively incorporating implications into your research paper, you can enhance the significance of your work and leave a lasting impact on your field.

Examples of Theoretical Implications in Research

To illustrate the diversity of your further research findings, consider these hypothetical scenarios:

• Education : A study on teaching methods may suggest that experiential learning boosts engagement, encouraging educational institutions to explore such approaches.
• Healthcare : Research indicating a high prevalence of asthma in urban areas may imply that city governments need stricter air quality regulations.
• Social Media : A study on social media’s impact on teens’ mental health might suggest that reduced screen time could improve well-being, prompting schools to introduce awareness programs.

These examples show how implications can provide valuable insights across various fields.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When writing research implications, watch out for these common pitfalls:

• Being Vague . Avoid broad statements that lack specificity or practical relevance.
• Overgeneralization . Stick to implications directly supported by your data.
• Ignoring Negative Impacts . Acknowledge both positive and negative implications to present a balanced view.
• Confusing Implications with Recommendations . Clearly distinguish between explaining impact (implications) and suggesting actions (recommendations).

These practices help maintain the accuracy and utility of your implications.

Research Paper Writer Assistance

Hiring a research paper writer can be a valuable resource for researchers struggling with articulating clear and impactful implications. A professional writer experienced in academic research can help structure your paper effectively, ensuring the implications are well-defined and properly placed.

Research paper writers offer expertise in presenting complex ideas in clear, concise language, making it easier for researchers to communicate their study’s significance.

Implications in research offer a powerful way to showcase a study’s impact. By following guidelines on how to craft implications, researchers can ensure their work contributes meaningfully to their field. This contribution includes advancing theoretical understanding and guiding practical policy, healthcare, education, and beyond changes.

Well-defined implications increase the accessibility, visibility, and long-term relevance of research, transforming findings into actionable insights that benefit society.

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What are Implications in Research?

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Table of Contents

Manuscripts that do not mention the implications of the study are often desk-rejected by journals. What constitutes the ‘implications’ of research, and why is it important to include research implications in your manuscript?

Research implications: An overview

Once you have laid out the key findings in your paper, you have to discuss how they will likely impact the world. What is the significance of your study to policymakers, the lay person, or other researchers? This speculation, made in good faith, constitutes your study’ implications.

A research paper that does not explain the study’s importance in light of its findings exists in a vacuum. The paper may be relevant to you, the author, and some of your co-workers. But it is unclear how others will benefit from reading it.

How can the findings of your study help create a better world? What can we infer from your conclusion about the current state of research in your field or the quality of methods you employed? These are all important implications of your study.

You cannot predict how your study will influence the world or research in the future. You can only make reasonable speculations. In order to ensure that the implications are reasonable, you have to be mindful of the limitations of your study.

In the research context, only speculations supported by data count as valid implications. If the implications you draw do not logically follow the key findings of your study, they may sound overblown or outright preposterous.

Suppose your study evaluated the effects of a new drug in the adult population. In that case, you could not honestly speculate on how the drug will impact paediatric care. Thus, the implications you draw from your study cannot exceed its scope.

Practical implications

Imagine that your study found a popular type of cognitive therapy to be ineffective in treating insomnia. Your findings imply that psychologists using this type of therapy were not seeing actual results but an expectancy effect. Studies that can potentially impact real-world problems by prompting policy change or change in treatments have practical implications.

It can be helpful to understand the difference between an implication of your study and a recommendation. Suppose your study compares two or more types of therapy, ranks them in the order of effectiveness, and explicitly asks clinicians to follow the most effective type. The suggestion made in the end constitutes a ‘recommendation’ and not an ‘implication’.

Theoretical implications

Are your findings in line with previous research? Did your results validate the methods used in previous research or invalidate them? Has your study discovered a new and helpful way to do experiments? Speculations on how your findings can potentially impact research in your field of study are theoretical implications.

The main difference between practical and theoretical implications is that theoretical implications may not be readily helpful to policymakers or the public.

How to Write Implications in Research

Implications usually form an essential part of the conclusion section of a research paper. As we have mentioned in a previous article, this section starts by summarising your work, but this time emphasises your work’s significance .

While writing the implications, it is helpful to ask, “who will benefit the most from reading my paper?”—policymakers, physicians, the public, or other researchers. Once you know your target population, explain how your findings can help them.

Think about how the findings in your study are similar or dissimilar to the findings of previous studies. Your study may reaffirm or disprove the results of other studies. This is an important implication.

Suggest future directions for research in the subject area in light of your findings or further research to confirm your findings. These are also crucial implications.

Do not try to exaggerate your results, and make sure your tone reflects the strength of your findings. If the implications mentioned in your paper are convincing, it can improve visibility for your work and spur similar studies in your field.

For more information on the importance of implications in research, and guidance on how to include them in your manuscript, visit Elsevier Author Services now!

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How to write implications in research?

17 June 2024

Magda Wojcik

In the context of research papers and other academic texts , implications refer to the consequences, effects or significance of the research findings. They address the broader impact of the study and suggest how the results can be applied in practice, policy, further research or theory. Understanding and effectively communicating research implications is crucial for maximising the impact of academic work.

This blog post discusses various types of research implications, differentiates between implications and recommendations and provides tips for writing a compelling implications section. Read on to discover how to write effective research findings, what they consist of and how they differ from research recommendations.

Research implications vs research recommendations

Types of implications in research, structure of implications in research, examples of implications in research, tips for writing implications in research, using professional editing services to enhance implications in research, resources for writing implications in research.

Research implications and recommendations are two distinct sections in academic writing that serve different purposes. Both sections are crucial for contextualising the research findings. Implications offer an understanding of the study’s broader impact on theory, practice and policy. In contrast, recommendations provide a roadmap for future actions and practical applications. Together they help bridge the gap between research and its application, ensuring that findings are understood and utilised effectively.

The implications section explains the significance of the study’s findings and their broader impact. It helps the academic audience understand the theoretical, practical and policy-related consequences of the research. For example, it might have implications of a study on environmental policies suggesting such regulations can effectively reduce pollution, thereby influencing future policy decisions.

On the other hand, the recommendations section in research papers provides specific, actionable suggestions based on the study’s findings. These recommendations are aimed at practitioners, policymakers and researchers who will take direct action. They focus on future-oriented steps and often include practical applications, policy changes and suggestions for further research. For instance, if a study finds that a particular teaching method improves student engagement, the recommendation might be to implement this method across schools and conduct further research on its long-term effects.

In research, implications can be categorised into six types based on the areas they impact, which include: theoretical, practical, methodological, policy, social and ethical and future research implications.

Theoretical implications

Theoretical implications relate to the contributions of the research findings to existing theories or frameworks. They can have three functions: validation, extension or contradiction of findings.

• Validation : How the findings support or validate existing theories.
• Extension : How the findings extend current theories or propose new theoretical frameworks.
• Contradiction : How the findings challenge or contradict existing theories, suggesting the need for revisions.

Practical implications

Practical implications involve the application of research findings in real-world settings. They may be relevant to professional practice, industry applications or technological developments.

• Professional practice : How practitioners in a field (e.g. medicine, education, engineering) can apply the findings to improve their work.
• Industry applications : How businesses or industries can utilise the findings to enhance processes, products or services.
• Technological developments : Implications for developing or improving technologies based on the research.

Methodological implications

Methodological implications refer to insights or suggestions related to research methods and designs. They may discuss research design, data collection or analysis methods.

• Research design : How the findings inform the design of future studies (e.g. suggesting certain methodologies or highlighting the limitations of others).
• Data collection : Implications for how data should be collected or measured in future research.
• Analysis methods : Recommendations for data analysis techniques that could be improved or used differently based on the study’s findings.

Policy implications

Policy implications are the potential impacts of research findings on policy-making, including policy development, regulatory changes or public health and safety.

• Policy development : Suggestions for new policies or changes to existing policies based on the research.
• Regulatory changes : How the findings could inform regulatory frameworks or guidelines.
• Public health and safety : Implications for public health, safety or welfare policies.

Social and ethical implications

Social and ethical implications involve the broader societal and ethical consequences of the research findings. These implications may touch upon social impact, ethical considerations or cultural implications of research.

• Social impact : How the findings might affect societal norms, values or behaviours.
• Ethical considerations : Ethical issues raised by the research findings, such as privacy concerns, equity and justice.
• Cultural implications : How the findings may affect or be interpreted within different cultural contexts.

Future research implications

Future research implications highlight areas for further investigation based on the study’s findings. These implications may identify gaps in the existing research, pose new research questions or suggest an interdisciplinary research.

• Identifying gaps : Highlighting gaps in the current research that need to be addressed.
• New research questions : Suggesting new questions or hypotheses for future studies.
• Interdisciplinary research : Encouraging research that crosses traditional disciplinary boundaries to address complex issues.

1. Summary of key findings

Research implications typically begin with a summary of the key findings to provide context for the discussion that follows. This summary highlights the most significant or impactful results, setting the stage for exploring their broader significance.

2. Contextualisation

The implications are then contextualised within the existing literature, theories or practices. This involves explaining how the study’s results relate to, support or challenge previous research and theoretical frameworks. By situating the findings within the broader academic conversation, the research underscores their relevance and potential impact.

3. Specific types of implications

Depending on the nature of the study, different implications may be discussed.

Theoretical implications address how the findings contribute to existing theories or models, whether they support, refine or challenge these frameworks.

Practical implications focus on the real-world applications of the research. These might include recommendations for practitioners, professionals or organisations on implementing the findings to improve practices or processes.

Methodological implications reflect on the strengths and weaknesses of the research methods used. This discussion might include suggestions for improving research designs, data collection or analysis techniques in future studies.

Policy implications explore how the findings can inform or influence policy decisions. This might involve providing specific recommendations for policymakers based on the research outcomes, discussing the potential impact on existing policies or suggesting the development of new policies.

Social and ethical implications consider the broader societal impact of the research findings. This includes addressing any ethical considerations or concerns raised by the study and discussing how the findings might affect societal norms, values or behaviour.

Future research directions identify gaps or limitations in the current study that should be addressed in subsequent research. This might involve suggesting new research questions, hypotheses or areas of investigation arising from the findings. Encouraging interdisciplinary research or collaboration can also be valuable, especially for complex issues that benefit from diverse perspectives and expertise.

4. Limitations

It is also important to acknowledge any limitations of the study that might affect the generalisability or applicability of the findings. Clarifying the scope and boundaries within which the implications should be interpreted helps provide a realistic understanding of the study’s contributions.

5. Practical examples and scenarios (optional)

In some cases, providing practical examples or scenarios can help illustrate how the implications can be applied. Using case studies or hypothetical situations makes the implications more relatable and understandable, demonstrating their practical relevance.

6. Call to action (optional)

Finally, a call to action may be included to encourage stakeholders, practitioners or researchers to take specific actions based on the implications. Highlighting the importance and urgency of applying the findings or conducting further research can help drive progress and innovation in the field.

Example 1: Theoretical implications in psychology

A study found that mindfulness meditation significantly reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression in adults. These results align with previous research by Kabat-Sinn (2015), which demonstrated the efficacy of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) in managing stress and mood disorders. Similarly, Segal et al. (2016) showed that mindfulness practices could effectively prevent the relapse of depression. The findings suggest a potential theoretical expansion of cognitive-behavioural theories to include mindfulness practices as a core component of therapeutic interventions. Incorporating mindfulness meditation into CBT could provide a more holistic approach to treating anxiety and depression, addressing both cognitive distortions and emotional regulation simultaneously.

However, the study’s sample was limited to adults in urban areas, which may not be generalisable to other populations. It relied on self-reported measures of anxiety and depression, which could be subject to bias. Future research should include diverse populations and utilise objective measures of mental health outcomes. Clinicians are encouraged to integrate mindfulness practices into their therapeutic repertoire to potentially enhance treatment outcomes for patients with anxiety and depression.

Example 2: Practical implications in education

Research shows that using gamification techniques in classroom settings improves student engagement and learning outcomes in high school science classes. These findings contribute to existing research by Deterding et al. (2011) and Hamari et al. (2014), which demonstrated the effectiveness of gamification in educational contexts but were primarily focused on higher education and adult learning environments. The practical implication of this finding is that educators should consider integrating gamification strategies into their teaching methods to enhance student participation and academic performance.

Techniques such as point scoring, leaderboards, and interactive game-based learning activities can make science education more engaging and effective for students. However, the study was conducted in a limited number of schools, which may affect the generalisability of the results. To address this, future research should include a larger and more diverse sample of schools. Educators are encouraged to experiment with gamification techniques and share their experiences to build a more robust body of evidence on its effectiveness.

Example 3: Policy implications in public health

A study found that increased access to urban green spaces is associated with lower rates of obesity and cardiovascular diseases in urban populations. This finding supports existing research by Mitchell and Popham (2008) and Maas et al. (2009), which highlighted the health benefits of green spaces, particularly in reducing stress and promoting physical activity. However, these studies primarily focused on suburban and rural settings. The findings have significant policy implications, suggesting that urban planning and public health policies should prioritise the development and maintenance of green spaces in cities.

By investing in parks and recreational areas, policymakers can promote healthier lifestyles and reduce the burden of chronic diseases on healthcare systems. However, the study was observational and cannot definitively establish causation. Future research should employ longitudinal designs to better understand the causal relationships. Policymakers are urged to consider these findings when planning urban development projects to create healthier communities.

Example 4: Methodological implications in computer science

An analysis of algorithm performance reveals that machine learning models trained on diverse datasets outperform those trained on homogenous datasets in predicting financial market trends. This finding contributes to the field by building on the work of Buolamwini and Gebru (2018) and Binns (2018), who highlighted the importance of dataset diversity in reducing bias and improving algorithmic fairness. The study’s methodological implication is that future research in financial forecasting should emphasise the collection and utilisation of diverse and representative datasets. Improving dataset diversity can enhance model robustness and predictive accuracy, leading to more reliable financial predictions and decision-making.

However, the study did not account for all potential confounding variables that could affect model performance. Future studies should control for these variables to validate the findings. Researchers are encouraged to prioritise dataset diversity in their machine learning projects to improve outcomes.

Writing effective research implications involves clearly communicating the significance and potential impact of your study’s findings. Here are some tips to help you craft well-rounded and impactful implications:

• Summarise key findings : Begin by succinctly summarising the key findings of your study. This helps set the stage for discussing the implications and ensures the reader understands the context.
• Contextualise your findings : Relate your findings to existing literature, theories or practices. Explain how your results support, contradict or expand upon previous research. Use specific references to relevant studies to strengthen your argument.
• Be specific and clear : Avoid vague statements. Clearly articulate how your findings can be applied or what they mean for the field. Specificity enhances the credibility and utility of your implications.
• Address limitations : Acknowledge any limitations of your study that may affect the generalisability or applicability of your findings. This adds a layer of credibility and transparency.
• Suggest future research : Identify gaps or limitations in your study that future research should address. Propose specific questions or areas for further investigation that arise from your findings.
• Use clear and concise language : Write in clear, concise language that is accessible to a broad audience. Avoid jargon or overly complex sentences that might confuse readers.
• Align with your research objectives : Ensure that your implications align with the objectives and scope of your research. They should logically follow from your study’s aims and results.
• Be realistic and balanced : Avoid overstatement. Be realistic about what your findings can achieve and consider both positive and negative implications.

Using professional editing services can significantly enhance the clarity, coherence and impact of the research implications section of a research paper. Each type of editing service provides distinct benefits that can improve different aspects of the writing. Here is a detailed discussion of how specific editing services can enhance research implications:

Proofreading

Proofreading focuses on correcting surface-level errors such as grammar, spelling, punctuation and typographical mistakes. It ensures that the implications are free from distracting errors, which can undermine the credibility of the research. Moreover, it improves the overall readability by eliminating minor mistakes, making it easier for readers to understand the implications. Finally, thanks to proofreading, a polished text reflects professionalism and attention to detail, which can positively influence reviewers and readers.

Copyediting

Copyediting addresses grammar, syntax, style and consistency, as well as ensuring adherence to specific formatting and citation guidelines. This service ensures that the implications are clearly and consistently articulated, avoiding ambiguities and inconsistencies that could confuse readers. In addition, it aligns the writing style and tone with the conventions of the discipline and the expectations of the target audience, enhancing the professionalism of the text. Furthermore, it ensures that terminology is used correctly and consistently, which is crucial for accurately conveying complex research implications.

Line editing

Line editing focuses on the content, flow and structure of sentences and paragraphs, enhancing the overall writing quality. It improves the logical flow and coherence of the implications section, ensuring that ideas are presented in a clear and compelling manner. Furthermore, line editing eliminates redundancy and unnecessary words, making the implications more concise and impactful. Additionally, it helps highlight the most important points and findings, ensuring that the key implications stand out to the reader.

Developmental editing

Developmental editing is a comprehensive review that focuses on the structure, content and organisation of the entire manuscript, including the research implications. Moreover, it ensures that the implications are logically organised and effectively integrated with the rest of the paper, providing a clear narrative from findings to implications. In addition, it provides feedback on the depth and breadth of the implications, encouraging the inclusion of more detailed analysis, examples and future research directions. Finally, developmental editing strengthens the argumentation by identifying and addressing any gaps or weaknesses in the implications, ensuring that they are well-supported by the research findings.

• ‘ Concluding Well, Part 1 — The Big Air Problem ‘ by Pat Thomson, published in Patter blog, discusses how to effectively write the conclusion and implications section of the study.
• ‘ Discussion Phrases Guide ’ by APA Style Manual provides possible statements to use when discussing specific types of content in the discussion section of a research paper aligned with the APA style guide.
• Elsevier Researcher Academy provides modules and resources on writing research papers, including tips on writing the discussion and implications sections.
• Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL) offers comprehensive writing resources for all aspects of academic writing, including how to write discussions and implications.
• The Craft of Research by Wayne C. Booth, Gregory G. Colomb and Joseph M. Williams offers comprehensive guidance on the entire research process, including how to articulate the significance and implications of research findings.
• They Say / I Say: The Moves That Matter in Academic Writing by Gerald Graff and Cathy Birkenstein focuses on developing arguments and integrating them into the broader academic conversation, which is crucial for discussing implications.
• Writing Your Journal Article in Twelve Weeks: A Guide to Academic Publishing Success by Wendy Laura Belcher provides practical advice on writing and revising journal articles, including how to effectively discuss research implications.

Key takeaways

In conclusion, understanding and articulating the implications in research is vital for demonstrating the broader impact and relevance of a study. By distinguishing between research implications and recommendations, researchers can provide a comprehensive view that bridges theory, practice, policy and future research. Effective implications highlight the significance of the results and guide future actions and studies. Utilising professional editing services, such as proofreading, copyediting, line editing and developmental editing, can greatly enhance the clarity and impact of your implications section. By following these guidelines and leveraging available resources, researchers can ensure their findings are not only understood but also applied effectively, thereby maximising the contribution of their work to their field.

Remember, well-articulated implications in research can transform your findings from mere data points to powerful insights that drive innovation and change. I am an editor and indexer working with academic writers, journals and presses. If your academic manuscript needs a second pair of eyes, contact me for a  free sample edit  (and remember to use my  early bird discount ).

I'm a freelance editor and indexer with a PhD in literary history. I work with non-fiction, academic and business texts.

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Implications in research: A quick guide

Last updated

11 January 2024

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Implications are a bridge between data and action, giving insight into the effects of the research and what it means. It's a chance for researchers to explain the  why  behind the research. 

When writing a research paper , reviewers will want to see you clearly state the implications of your research. If it's missing, they’ll likely reject your article. 

Let's explore what research implications are, why they matter, and how to include them in your next article or research paper. 

• What are implications in research?

Research implications are the consequences of research findings. They go beyond results and explore your research’s ramifications. 

Researchers can connect their research to the real-world impact by identifying the implications. These can inform further research, shape policy, or spark new solutions to old problems. 

Always clearly state your implications so they’re obvious to the reader. Never leave the reader to guess why your research matters. While it might seem obvious to you, it may not be evident to someone who isn't a subject matter expert. 

For example, you may do important sociological research with political implications. If a policymaker can't understand or connect those implications logically with your research, it reduces your impact.

• What are the key features of implications?

When writing your implications, ensure they have these key features: 

Implications should be clear, concise, and easily understood by a broad audience. You'll want to avoid overly technical language or jargon. Clearly stating your implications increases their impact and accessibility. 

Implications should link to specific results within your research to ensure they’re grounded in reality. You want them to demonstrate an impact on a particular field or research topic . 

Evidence-based

Give your implications a solid foundation of evidence. They need to be rational and based on data from your research, not conjecture. An evidence-based approach to implications will lend credibility and validity to your work.

Implications should take a balanced approach, considering the research's potential positive and negative consequences. A balanced perspective acknowledges the challenges and limitations of research and their impact on stakeholders. 

Future-oriented

Don't confine your implications to their immediate outcomes. You can explore the long-term effects of the research, including the impact on future research, policy decisions, and societal changes. Looking beyond the immediate adds more relevance to your research. 

When your implications capture these key characteristics, your research becomes more meaningful, impactful, and engaging. 

• Types of implications in research

The implications of your research will largely depend on what you are researching. 

However, we can broadly categorize the implications of research into two types: 

Practical: These implications focus on real-world applications and could improve policies and practices.

Theoretical: These implications are broader and might suggest changes to existing theories of models of the world. 

You'll first consider your research's implications in these two broad categories. Will your key findings have a real-world impact? Or are they challenging existing theories? 

Once you've established whether the implications are theoretical or practical, you can break your implication into more specific types. This might include: 

Political implications: How findings influence governance, policies, or political decisions

Social implications: Effects on societal norms, behaviors, or cultural practices

Technological implications: Impact on technological advancements or innovation

Clinical implications: Effects on healthcare, treatments, or medical practices

Commercial or business-relevant implications: Possible strategic paths or actions

Implications for future research: Guidance for future research, such as new avenues of study or refining the study methods

When thinking about the implications of your research, keep them clear and relevant. Consider the limitations and context of your research. 

For example, if your study focuses on a specific population in South America, you may not be able to claim the research has the same impact on the global population. The implication may be that we need further research on other population groups. 

• Understanding recommendations vs. implications

While "recommendations" and "implications" may be interchangeable, they have distinct roles within research.

Recommendations suggest action. They are specific, actionable suggestions you could take based on the research. Recommendations may be a part of the larger implication. 

Implications explain consequences. They are broader statements about how the research impacts specific fields, industries, institutions, or societies. 

Within a paper, you should always identify your implications before making recommendations. 

While every good research paper will include implications of research, it's not always necessary to include recommendations. Some research could have an extraordinary impact without real-world recommendations. 

• How to write implications in research

Including implications of research in your article or journal submission is essential. You need to clearly state your implications to tell the reviewer or reader why your research matters. 

Because implications are so important, writing them can feel overwhelming.

Here’s our step-by-step guide to make the process more manageable:

1. Summarize your key findings

Start by summarizing your research and highlighting the key discoveries or emerging patterns. This summary will become the foundation of your implications. 

2. Identify the implications

Think critically about the potential impact of your key findings. Consider how your research could influence practices, policies, theories, or societal norms. 

Address the positive and negative implications, and acknowledge the limitations and challenges of your research. 

If you still need to figure out the implications of your research, reread your introduction. Your introduction should include why you’re researching the subject and who might be interested in the results. This can help you consider the implications of your final research. 

3. Consider the larger impact

Go beyond the immediate impact and explore the implications on stakeholders outside your research group. You might include policymakers, practitioners, or other researchers.

4. Support with evidence

Cite specific findings from your research that support the implications. Connect them to your original thesis statement. 

You may have included why this research matters in your introduction, but now you'll want to support that implication with evidence from your research. 

Your evidence may result in implications that differ from the expected impact you cited in the introduction of your paper or your thesis statement. 

5. Review for clarity

Review your implications to ensure they are clear, concise, and jargon-free. Double-check that your implications link directly to your research findings and original thesis statement. 

Following these steps communicates your research implications effectively, boosting its long-term impact. 

Where do implications go in your research paper?

Implications often appear in the discussion section of a research paper between the presentation of findings and the conclusion. 

Putting them here allows you to naturally transition from the key findings to why the research matters. You'll be able to convey the larger impact of your research and transition to a conclusion.

• Examples of research implications

Thinking about and writing research implications can be tricky. 

To spark your critical thinking skills and articulate implications for your research, here are a few hypothetical examples of research implications: 

Teaching strategies

A study investigating the effectiveness of a new teaching method might have practical implications for educators. 

The research might suggest modifying current teaching strategies or changing the curriculum’s design. 

There may be an implication for further research into effective teaching methods and their impact on student testing scores. 

Social media impact

A research paper examines the impact of social media on teen mental health. 

Researchers find that spending over an hour on social media daily has significantly worse mental health effects than 15 minutes. 

There could be theoretical implications around the relationship between technology and human behavior. There could also be practical implications in writing responsible social media usage guidelines. 

Disease prevalence

A study analyzes the prevalence of a particular disease in a specific population. 

The researchers find this disease occurs in higher numbers in mountain communities. This could have practical implications on policy for healthcare allocation and resource distribution. 

There may be an implication for further research into why the disease appears in higher numbers at higher altitudes.

These examples demonstrate the considerable range of implications that research can generate.

Clearly articulating the implications of research allows you to enhance the impact and visibility of your work as a researcher. It also enables you to contribute to societal advancements by sharing your knowledge.

The implications of your work could make positive changes in the world around us.

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What Are Implications in Research? | Examples & Tips

As a researcher, you know you need to provide a background for your study and a clear rationale and to formulate the statement of the problem in a way that leaves no doubt that your work is relevant and important. You also need to guide the reader carefully through your story from beginning to end without leaving any methodological questions unanswered. 

But many authors, when arriving at the end of their paper, run out of steam or lose the thread a bit and struggle with finding an ending for their work. Something can then appear missing, even if the discussion section summarizes the findings clearly, relates them back to the questions raised in the introduction section , and discusses them in the context of earlier works. A tired author who just made it to the end can often not see these missing elements and may finish off their paper with a conclusion section that is more or less a repetition of what has already been stated. After all, what more is there to be said? 

But as sure as the sun will rise again the day after you finally submitted, you will get your paper back from your supervisor or the reviewers with a comment that says, “implications are missing.” For a reader who is not as invested in every little detail of your design and analyses, the main questions that a paper has to answer are “why was this study necessary?” and “why are the findings of this study significant, and for whom, and what are we supposed to do with them now?” The latter are the implications of your work. 

Didn’t I explain the implications in my introduction section?

You will hopefully have already explained why and for whom your study is important. But you now also need to clearly state how you think your actual findings (which might differ from what you expected to find at the beginning) may be relevant and/or can be used in practical or theoretical ways, for future research, or by policymakers. These implications need to be based on your study’s parameters and results, and potential limitations of your methodology or sample should be taken into account to avoid overgeneralization. 

If you make the reader guess what the significance of your work might be or let them assume you don’t think that your work will be important for anyone except yourself and your colleagues who share your enthusiasm because they are working on the same topic, then an editor or reviewer might easily see that as a reason for a desk-reject. To avoid this, in the following, we will give you an overview of the different types of implications that research findings can have, provide some examples for your inspiration, and clarify where your implications should go in your paper. 

Table of Contents:

• Types of Implications in Research

Recommendations Versus Implications 

• Research Implications Examples 
• Where Do the Implications Go in Your paper?

Types of Implications in Research 

Depending on the type of research you are doing (clinical, philosophical, political…) the implications of your findings can likewise be clinical, philosophical, political, social, ethical—you name it. The most important distinction, however, is the one between practical implications and theoretical implications, and what many reviewers immediately notice and flag as an issue is when there is no mention of any kind of practical contribution of the work described in a paper. 

Of course, if you study a mathematical theory, then your findings might simply lead to the debunking of another theory as false, and you might need to do some mental gymnastics if you really wanted to apply that to a real-world problem. But chances are, in that case, your reviewers and readers won’t ask for a real-world implication. In most other cases, however, if you really want to convince your audience that your work deserves attention, publication, prizes, and whatnot, then you need to link whatever you did in the lab or found in the library to real life and highlight how your findings might have a lasting effect on your field (for example, methodologically), common practices (e.g., patient treatment or teaching standards), society at large (maybe the way we communicate), or ethical standards (e.g., in animal research). 

The question is not whether your findings will change the world, but whether they could if they were publicized and implemented—according to the Merriam-Webster online dictionary , the essential meaning of implication is a “possible future effect or result”. This possible result is what you have to identify and describe. And while being creative is certainly allowed, make sure your assumptions stay within realistic expectations, and don’t forget to take the limitations of your methodology or your sample into account. 

If you studied the genetic basis of a disease in some animal model, then make sure you have good reason to draw conclusions about the treatment of the same disease in humans if you don’t want to put off the editor who decides whether to even send your manuscript out for review. Likewise, if you explored the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on higher education institutions in your country, then make sure the conclusions you draw hold in the context of other countries’ pandemic situations and restrictions and differences across education systems before you claim that they are relevant in a global context. 

Implications, as we already explored, state the importance of your study and how your findings may be relevant for the fine-tuning of certain practices, theoretical models, policymaking, or future research studies. As stated earlier, that does not necessarily mean that you believe your findings will change the world tomorrow, but that you have reason to believe they could have an impact in a specific way. Recommendations, on the other hand, are specific suggestions regarding the best course of action in a certain situation based on your findings. If, for example, you used three different established methods in your field to tackle the same problem, compared the outcomes, and concluded that one of these methods is, in fact, insufficient and should not be used anymore, then that is a recommendation for future research. 

Or if you analyzed how a monetary “Corona support program” in your country affected the local economy and found that most of the money the government provided went to Amazon and not to local businesses, then you can recommend that your government come up with a better plan next time. Such specific recommendations should usually follow the implications, not the other way around, because you always need to identify the implications of your work, but not every study allows the author to make practical suggestions or real-world recommendations.

Research Implications Examples

Clinical implications  .

Let’s say you discovered a new antibiotic that could eliminate a specific pathogen effectively without generating resistance (the main problem with antibiotics). The clinical implications of your findings would then be that infections with this pathogen could be more rapidly treated than before (without you predicting or suggesting any specific action to happen as a result of your findings). A recommendation would be that doctors should start using this new antibiotic, that it should be included in the official treatment guidelines, that it should be covered by the national health insurance of your country, etc.—but depending on how conclusive your findings are or how much more research or development might be needed to get from your findings to the actual medication, such recommendations might be a big stretch. The implications, however, since they state the potential of your findings, are valid in any case and should not be missing from your discussion section, even if your findings are just one small step along the way.

Social implications 

The social implications of the study are defined as the ability or potential of research to impact society in visible ways. One of the obvious fields of research that strives for a social impact through the implementation of evidence that increases the overall quality of people’s lives is psychology. Whether your research explores the new work-life-balance movement and its effect on mental well-being, psychological interventions at schools to compensate for the stress many children are experiencing since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, or how work from home is changing family dynamics, you can most likely draw conclusions that go beyond just your study sample and describe potential (theoretical or practical) effects of your findings in the real world. Be careful, however, that you don’t overgeneralize from your sample or your data to the general population without having solid reasons to do so (and explain those reasons).

Implications for future research

Even if your findings are not going to lead to societal changes, new educational policies, or an overhaul of the national pension system, they might have important implications for future research studies. Maybe you used a new technique that is more precise or more efficient or way cheaper than existing methods and this could enable more labs around the world to study a specific problem. Or maybe you found that a gene that is known to be involved in one disease might also be involved in another disease, which opens up new avenues for research and treatment options. As stated earlier, make sure you don’t confuse recommendations (which you might not be able to make, based on your findings, and don’t necessarily have to) with implications, which are the potential effect that your findings could have—independently of whether you have any influence on that. 

Where Do the Implications Go in Your Paper? 

The implications are part of your discussion section, where you summarize your findings and then put them into context—this context being earlier research but also the potential effect your findings could have in the real world, in whatever scenario you think might be relevant. There is no “implication section” and no rule as to where in the discussion section you need to include these details because the order of information depends on how you structured your methods and your results section and how your findings turned out to prove or disprove your hypotheses. You simply need to work the potential effects of your findings into your discussion section in a logical way.

But the order of information is relevant when it comes to your conclusion at the very end of your discussion section: Here, you start with a very short summary of your study and results, then provide the (theoretical, practical, ethical, social, technological…) implications of your work, and end with a specific recommendation if (and only if) your findings call for that. If you have not paid attention to the importance of your implications while writing your discussion section, then this is your chance to fix that before you finalize and submit your paper and let an editor and reviewers judge the relevance of your work. 

Make sure you do not suddenly come up with practical ideas that look like they were plucked out of the air because someone reminded you to “add some implications” at the last minute. If you don’t know where to start, then go back to your introduction section, look at your rationale and research questions, look at how your findings answered those questions, and ask yourself who else could benefit from knowing what you know now.

Consider Using English Editing Services 

And before you submit your manuscript to your target journal’s editor, be sure to get professional English editing services from Wordvice, including academic editing and manuscript editing , which are tailored to the needs of your paper’s subject area. If you need instant proofreading or paraphrasing while drafting your work, check out our online AI Text Editor , Wordvice AI, which is trained on millions of words of academic writing data and tailored for research writers.

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Research Implications & Recommendations

By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | May 2024

T he research implications and recommendations are closely related but distinctly different concepts that often trip students up. Here, we’ll unpack them using plain language and loads of examples , so that you can approach your project with confidence.

Overview: Implications & Recommendations

• What are research implications ?
• What are research recommendations ?
• Examples of implications and recommendations
• The “ Big 3 ” categories
• How to write the implications and recommendations
• Template sentences for both sections
• Key takeaways

Implications & Recommendations 101

Let’s start with the basics and define our terms.

At the simplest level, research implications refer to the possible effects or outcomes of a study’s findings. More specifically, they answer the question, “ What do these findings mean?” . In other words, the implications section is where you discuss the broader impact of your study’s findings on theory, practice and future research.

This discussion leads us to the recommendations section , which is where you’ll propose specific actions based on your study’s findings and answer the question, “ What should be done next?” . In other words, the recommendations are practical steps that stakeholders can take to address the key issues identified by your study.

In a nutshell, then, the research implications discuss the broader impact and significance of a study’s findings, while recommendations provide specific actions to take, based on those findings. So, while both of these components are deeply rooted in the findings of the study, they serve different functions within the write up.

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Examples: Implications & Recommendations

The distinction between research implications and research recommendations might still feel a bit conceptual, so let’s look at one or two practical examples:

Let’s assume that your study finds that interactive learning methods significantly improve student engagement compared to traditional lectures. In this case, one of your recommendations could be that schools incorporate more interactive learning techniques into their curriculums to enhance student engagement.

Let’s imagine that your study finds that patients who receive personalised care plans have better health outcomes than those with standard care plans. One of your recommendations might be that healthcare providers develop and implement personalised care plans for their patients.

Now, these are admittedly quite simplistic examples, but they demonstrate the difference (and connection ) between the research implications and the recommendations. Simply put, the implications are about the impact of the findings, while the recommendations are about proposed actions, based on the findings.

The “Big 3” Categories

Now that we’ve defined our terms, let’s dig a little deeper into the implications – specifically, the different types or categories of research implications that exist.

Broadly speaking, implications can be divided into three categories – theoretical implications, practical implications and implications for future research .

Theoretical implications relate to how your study’s findings contribute to or challenge existing theories. For example, if a study on social behaviour uncovers new patterns, it might suggest that modifications to current psychological theories are necessary.

Practical implications , on the other hand, focus on how your study’s findings can be applied in real-world settings. For example, if your study demonstrated the effectiveness of a new teaching method, this would imply that educators should consider adopting this method to improve learning outcomes.

Practical implications can also involve policy reconsiderations . For example, if a study reveals significant health benefits from a particular diet, an implication might be that public health guidelines be re-evaluated.

Last but not least, there are the implications for future research . As the name suggests, this category of implications highlights the research gaps or new questions raised by your study. For example, if your study finds mixed results regarding a relationship between two variables, it might imply the need for further investigation to clarify these findings.

To recap then, the three types of implications are the theoretical, the practical and the implications on future research. Regardless of the category, these implications feed into and shape the recommendations , laying the foundation for the actions you’ll propose.

How To Write The Sections

Now that we’ve laid the foundations, it’s time to explore how to write up the implications and recommendations sections respectively.

Let’s start with the “ where ” before digging into the “ how ”. Typically, the implications will feature in the discussion section of your document, while the recommendations will be located in the conclusion . That said, layouts can vary between disciplines and institutions, so be sure to check with your university what their preferences are.

For the implications section, a common approach is to structure the write-up based on the three categories we looked at earlier – theoretical, practical and future research implications. In practical terms, this discussion will usually follow a fairly formulaic sentence structure – for example:

This research provides new insights into [theoretical aspect], indicating that…

The study’s outcomes highlight the potential benefits of adopting [specific practice] in..

This study raises several questions that warrant further investigation, such as…

Moving onto the recommendations section, you could again structure your recommendations using the three categories. Alternatively, you could structure the discussion per stakeholder group – for example, policymakers, organisations, researchers, etc.

Again, you’ll likely use a fairly formulaic sentence structure for this section. Here are some examples for your inspiration: 

Based on the findings, [specific group] should consider adopting [new method] to improve…

To address the issues identified, it is recommended that legislation should be introduced to…

Researchers should consider examining [specific variable] to build on the current study’s findings.

Remember, you can grab a copy of our tried and tested templates for both the discussion and conclusion sections over on the Grad Coach blog. You can find the links to those, as well as loads of other free resources, in the description 🙂

FAQs: Implications & Recommendations

Research implications & recommendations, how do i determine the implications of my study.

To do this, you’ll need to consider how your findings address gaps in the existing literature, how they could influence theory, practice, or policy, and the potential societal or economic impacts.

When thinking about your findings, it’s also a good idea to revisit your introduction chapter, where you would have discussed the potential significance of your study more broadly. This section can help spark some additional ideas about what your findings mean in relation to your original research aims. 

Should I discuss both positive and negative implications?

Absolutely. You’ll need to discuss both the positive and negative implications to provide a balanced view of how your findings affect the field and any limitations or potential downsides.

Can my research implications be speculative?

Yes and no. While implications are somewhat more speculative than recommendations and can suggest potential future outcomes, they should be grounded in your data and analysis. So, be careful to avoid overly speculative claims.

How do I formulate recommendations?

Ideally, you should base your recommendations on the limitations and implications of your study’s findings. So, consider what further research is needed, how policies could be adapted, or how practices could be improved – and make proposals in this respect.

How specific should my recommendations be?

Your recommendations should be as specific as possible, providing clear guidance on what actions or research should be taken next. As mentioned earlier, the implications can be relatively broad, but the recommendations should be very specific and actionable. Ideally, you should apply the SMART framework to your recommendations.

Can I recommend future research in my recommendations?

Absolutely. Highlighting areas where further research is needed is a key aspect of the recommendations section. Naturally, these recommendations should link to the respective section of your implications (i.e., implications for future research).

Wrapping Up: Key Takeaways

We’ve covered quite a bit of ground here, so let’s quickly recap.

• Research implications refer to the possible effects or outcomes of a study’s findings.
• The recommendations section, on the other hand, is where you’ll propose specific actions based on those findings.
• You can structure your implications section based on the three overarching categories – theoretical, practical and future research implications.
• You can carry this structure through to the recommendations as well, or you can group your recommendations by stakeholder.

Remember to grab a copy of our tried and tested free dissertation template, which covers both the implications and recommendations sections. If you’d like 1:1 help with your research project, be sure to check out our private coaching service, where we hold your hand throughout the research journey, step by step.

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