Research literacy

Reading scientific research

A scientific finding is easier to evaluate when you can understand the question, the methods, and the limits of the evidence. This introduction highlights a few questions to ask while reading a study.

Start with the research question

Identify what the researchers set out to investigate. Check whether their conclusions address that question and whether the evidence supports the scope of the claim.

Look beyond the headline

Read the methods and limitations as well as the abstract. Consider the study design, comparison groups, sample size, and how uncertainty is reported. A result from one experimental setting may not apply in another.

Check how the work is documented

Clear descriptions of methods and analysis help readers assess a result. NIH guidance emphasizes rigorous design and transparent reporting as part of improving reproducibility.

Source: NIH — Enhancing Reproducibility through Rigor and Transparency.

Understand reproducibility and replication

The National Academies distinguishes checking results with the original data and computational methods from conducting a new study to address the same scientific question. Both can help assess the reliability of evidence.

Source: National Academies — Understanding Reproducibility and Replicability.

Keep conclusions in context

Consider multiple studies, conflicting findings, and the authors’ stated limitations. This page provides general education about research; it does not offer medical advice or instructions for using substances.