THE SUCCESS OF A RESEARCH PROJECT HINGES ON ACHIEVING A FAVORABLE GRADE FROM YOUR SUPERVISOR OR EXTERNAL EXAMINER. MANY STUDENTS LACK AWARENESS OF THE REQUIREMENTS NECESSARY FOR SECURING A GOOD GRADE. HENCE, WE WILL EXPLORE THE VARIOUS AREAS THAT SUPERVISORS OR EXTERNAL EXAMINERS UTILIZE TO EVALUATE YOUR PROJECT, WHICH CAN BE CLASSIFIED UNDER FIVE HEADINGS:

1. WHAT DID YOU DO?
   • This aspect examines the title of your project. It emphasizes familiarity with a concise and effective project topic, around which the entire work revolves.
2. WHY DID YOU DO IT?
   • Focuses on the significance, relevance, and justification of the study. Articulating tangible reasons and clearly stating who and what should benefit from the study are crucial. Proving the existence of the knowledge gap the study addresses is essential.
3. HOW DID YOU DO IT?
   • Addresses the research methodology, requiring the explanation of various aspects during writing/defense, such as population, sample size, sampling method, types of data, instruments of data collection, method of data collection, measurement of variables, and hypothesis formulation.
4. WHAT DID YOU GET?
   • Requires a precise statement of whether the findings align or disagree with previous literature. Presenting major findings, discussing implications, and addressing conclusions and recommendations are essential.
5. WHAT DID YOU CONTRIBUTE TO KNOWLEDGE?
   • Focuses on specific contributions, whether developing a new model, modifying an existing one, agreeing with or refuting an existing theory. These contributions represent additions to previous knowledge.

During the defense, preparedness for questions related to sample size, sampling methods, advantages and disadvantages of various techniques, hypothesis testing, statistical tools, and the interpretation of results is crucial. Success in addressing these elements will likely result in an excellent grade at the end of your research. Best of luck in your research process!