Difference between textbook stats and research article stats
I went to one of the research article's from psychology ocr a level textbook research referenced and the stats are a bit off in the textbook. Which should i reference in the exam? Am i safer referencing the incorrect textbook stats because thats what the examiner will likely rely on?
Hii @helloyesilizzie, BSc Psychology and Criminology student here! 👋🧠
Great that you spotted this and have searched out the original reference!
I have always had it drilled into me that it is always best practice to refer to the original source - so, like in your example, the original published research is the best source to reference rather than a text book. This gets particularly relevant if you decide to study at university and using published, peer-reviewed research for your references is encouraged over text books.
However, I would definitely say check with your tutor or other relevant staff at your institution to confirm, as they will have the best advice for your specific exam and could have a little look at the sources with you 😊
Good luck with your exams!! 😄🤞
Becky
University of Salford Student Rep
Great that you spotted this and have searched out the original reference!
I have always had it drilled into me that it is always best practice to refer to the original source - so, like in your example, the original published research is the best source to reference rather than a text book. This gets particularly relevant if you decide to study at university and using published, peer-reviewed research for your references is encouraged over text books.
However, I would definitely say check with your tutor or other relevant staff at your institution to confirm, as they will have the best advice for your specific exam and could have a little look at the sources with you 😊
Good luck with your exams!! 😄🤞
Becky
University of Salford Student Rep
Reply 2
Hi there! Examiners will probably not know all of the research you could be referencing, especially if this is paper 3 you're talking about (if it's a core study then they will know). I would, just to gne safe, memorise the results from the original source
Original post by helloyesilizzie
I went to one of the research article's from psychology ocr a level textbook research referenced and the stats are a bit off in the textbook. Which should i reference in the exam? Am i safer referencing the incorrect textbook stats because thats what the examiner will likely rely on?
Hey there 😃
When you come across contradictory statistics, the best approach is to search for more sources, prioritising the most recent and reliable data 📊🔎 This is especially important in Psychology, where research is constantly evolving, and different studies can produce varying results. That’s why looking for up-to-date, peer-reviewed articles is key to ensuring you have the most accurate understanding of a topic.
And don’t stress too much about examiners! As long as you cite credible sources, they can always check the references if something seems uncertain. What really matters isn’t whether your data is 100% “right” but rather how well you analyse, critique, and present your arguments. Psychology is a dynamic field, full of contrasting theories and findings, so demonstrating strong critical thinking is far more valuable than simply having the “correct” answer 🧠✨
I hope it will be helpful 💪 Feel free to reach out if you have any questions 😉 You can also chat with me or other students directly through The Ambassador Platform.
Take care,
Julia
Psychology student
De Montfort University
Quick Reply
Related discussions
- Research Methods & Statistics in BSc Psychology
- Best degree to study for finance
- Is A-level Psychology more interesting than Psychology at undergrad?
- I can't decide between a maths or maths and stats degree
- Can someone please give feedback on my 8 mark History question?
- A level maths OCR A new spec textbook recommendation?
- uplearn for maths
- Understanding the W in COWI
- Advice for studying physics at uni
- what should i study at uni
- Alevel Edexcel math advice
- A Level French what am I doing??
- Gcse english language
- Should I give it a shot? Medicine 2025 entry, International Student (Singapore)
- How can I improve my chances for Oxford PPL + tips for TSA?
- do i have enough time to go from Ds to As by the time summer comes around?
- Cookdd for stats
- History A-level and Tips on getting an A*
- history vs psychology at university
- Lancaster or Exeter
Latest
Trending
Last reply 2 weeks ago
Does university rankings matter for a career in neuropsychology? Need advice!
