While the Scientific Method is a good format for conducting research, we should be remember that research is conducted by human beings, each with his/her own ideas (hypotheses) of why things are the way they are. This introduces biases that affect the interpretation of results. Therefore, it is important to know where researchers are “coming from.”

Other biases can be introduced by other factors. One major factor is sponsorship of the research. If sponsors can benefit or lose from the results of research findings, then this can raise questions about the validity of the findings.

Finally, good research reports will always notify the readers of the limitations of the study. This helps readers decide on how much weight they can place on the conclusions of the study.