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A-Level Psychology Revision

Research Methods

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

Learn itInteractive mini-lessons for your exam boardPLAYQuick game on Research MethodsVelvet RevisionYour A-Level Psychology course mapFree PDF100 AI prompts for A-Level Psychology

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).

What your exam board covers

Where Research Methods sits in each exam board's specification. Tap a board to see what it lists.

AQAResearch methodsSpec 7182
  • Experimental and non-experimental methods
  • Data handling and analysis
  • Inferential statistics

Source: AQA A-level Psychology (7182) specification — Specification at a glance, accessed 23 June 2026.

EdexcelResearch methodsSpec 9PS0
  • Methods, design and ethics
  • Data analysis and inferential statistics

Source: Pearson Edexcel A-Level Psychology (9PS0) specification, accessed 23 June 2026.

OCRResearch methodsSpec H567
  • Research methods and techniques
  • Planning and conducting research
  • Data recording, analysis and presentation
  • Report writing
  • Practical activities
  • How science works

Source: OCR A Level Psychology (H567) specification, accessed 23 June 2026.

Learn Research Methods step by step

Free interactive mini-lessons: short screens, worked examples and quick checks. Pick your exam board:

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

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More A-Level Psychology topics

Social InfluenceMemory & CognitionAttachmentApproaches in PsychologyBiopsychologyPsychopathologyIssues & DebatesApplied Psychology
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