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Why Translated Instruments Fail Without Localization

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Why-translated-instruments-fail-without-localization

Understanding the Problem: Translation Isn’t Enough In global research, translation is often mistaken for localization. Many researchers assume that once a questionnaire or scale is linguistically translated, it becomes universally applicable.However, translation alone rarely guarantees conceptual equivalence—the idea that a question measures the same construct in another language or culture. For example, a “satisfaction survey” … Read more

Triangulation Isn’t Just About Using Three Methods

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Triangulation-is-not-just-about-using-three-methods

Understanding the Real Meaning of Triangulation In academic and applied research, triangulation is often misunderstood. Many believe it simply means using “three methods” to collect data. However, triangulation is not about the number three—it’s about cross-verifying evidence from multiple sources or perspectives to improve the credibility, reliability, and depth of research findings. This approach prevents … Read more

Why Simpler Models Outperform Overfitted Ones

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Why-simpler-models-outperform-overfitted-ones

In data analysis and research, complexity is often mistaken for sophistication. Many assume that the more variables or equations a model has, the stronger it becomes. However, the reality is quite the opposite — simpler models often perform better than overly complex, overfitted ones. Let’s explore why simplicity often wins, both statistically and practically. What … Read more

How to Write a Critical Literature Review

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How-to-write-a-critical-literature-review

Many researchers believe that a literature review is simply a summary of past work. But this mindset leads to shallow output and missed opportunities. At Research & Report Consulting, we help clients transform their literature reviews into strategic foundations for originality and impact. Below we will walk you through the critical issues many researchers miss, … Read more

Why Cross-Sectional Studies Can’t Prove Causation

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Why Cross-Sectional Studies Can’t Prove Causation

What is a Cross-Sectional Study? A cross-sectional study collects data from a sample at one point in time. It can identify associations between variables — for instance, between sleep quality and stress levels — but because exposures and outcomes are measured simultaneously, the sequence of events remains unknown. Biology Insights These studies are efficient, cost-effective, … Read more

𝗖𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝘆 𝘃𝘀 𝗔𝗻𝗲𝗰𝗱𝗼𝘁𝗲 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝗗𝗼 𝗥𝗶𝗴𝗼𝗿𝗼𝘂𝘀 𝗖𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵

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Case Study vs Anecdote How to Do Rigorous Case Research

Why the Distinction Matters in Research In academic and policy research, the term “case study” is too often misused as a glorified anecdote. But a true case study isn’t only about telling a story — it’s about systematic inquiry into real-life phenomena using evidence, logic and theoretical framing. Researchers who blur the line between case … Read more

Hidden Algorithmic Bias Behind Big Data Research

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The Hidden Algorithmic Bias Behind Big Data Research

Why Big Data Isn’t Automatically Unbiased In today’s research world, “big data” is often portrayed as objective, comprehensive and neutral. But the truth is different. Data sets are shaped by human decisions: what to include, what to exclude, how to categorise, what to prioritise.When the assumptions baked into collection or algorithms go unexamined, bias creeps … Read more

Why Intercoder Reliability Matters in Content Analysis

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Why-intercoder-reliability-matters-in-content-analysis

In research, content analysis is one of the most powerful methods for decoding meaning from text, media, or communication. Yet many studies collapse under one silent flaw — poor intercoder reliability (ICR). Most researchers assume that once coders agree “most of the time,” their analysis is valid. Unfortunately, that’s a misconception. True intercoder reliability is … Read more

Why Data from Developing Countries Must Include Informal Economy

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Why-data-from-developing-countries-must-include-informal-economy

In development research, we often analyze statistical models, national accounts, surveys, and international data repositories. Yet one critical factor frequently slips through the cracks: the informal economy — the unregistered, unregulated, and largely unrecorded portion of production and employment. Failing to recognize this hidden sector distorts our understanding of how economies function, especially in the … Read more

Mediator vs Moderator: Key Differences in Research Models

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Mediator vs Moderator Key Differences in Research Models

In empirical research, mistaking mediators for moderators (or vice versa) is surprisingly common. Yet the distinction is critical for valid inference, model specification, and publication success. Below, we dig into the conceptual, statistical, and practical nuances—especially those many researchers overlook. Conceptual Foundations In other words: Baron & Kenny’s classic 1986 formulation laid this foundation in … Read more