Frequently Asked Questions
Rigor in research lays groundwork for reproducible science through “the strict application of the scientific method to ensure robust and unbiased experimental design” (National Institutes of Health, 2018). Ways to ensure rigor can include to adopting a carefully laid out plan, methodological best practices, and thorough reporting standards.
Examples of best practices:
- Keeping good documentation of the materials used to obtain research results (i.e.,like data, code, and other information) and sharing these together with the results.
- Supportive and attentive supervision of students and postdocs
In contrast, ways to carry out research that impair rigor fall under what the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine define as detrimental research practices.