A-Level Psychology Revision

Research Methods

Experimental methods, sampling, data analysis, statistical tests and research ethics.

Research Methods is a core part of A-Level Psychology. Revise the key concepts and common mistakes below, then lock them in with the free games.

Key concepts

ExperimentManipulates an independent variable to measure an effect.
HypothesisA testable prediction.
VariablesIndependent, dependent and controlled variables.
SamplingSelecting a representative group from a population.
EthicsConsent, confidentiality and protection from harm.
Data analysisDescriptive and inferential statistics.
MeanSum divided by count — uses every value.
MedianMiddle value when ordered — robust to outliers.
ModeMost frequent value — only choice for nominal data.
RangeHighest minus lowest — simple but outlier-sensitive.
Standard DeviationAverage distance from the mean.
Normal DistributionSymmetrical bell curve; mean = median = mode.
Peer ReviewExpert scrutiny before publication.
Nominal DataCategorical (eye colour, gender).

Common mistakes to avoid

Questions where students often pick the tempting wrong answer — make sure you know the right one:

What does the behaviourist approach study?✗ The unconscious mind and dreams.   ✓ Observable behaviour and how it is learned.
In Milgram's study, what percentage of participants gave the maximum 450V shock?✗ 100 percent (all of them).   ✓ 65 percent.

Practise Research Methods — free games

Test yourself with these quick revision games for this topic:

▶ Two Truths, One Lie▶ Reveal Race▶ Connections Grid▶ Falling Words▶ Word Web

See all 17 games in the Subjects Arcade →

More A-Level Psychology topics

Social InfluenceMemory & CognitionAttachmentApproaches in PsychologyBiopsychologyPsychopathologyIssues & DebatesApplied Psychology

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