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18.11 How can I show the pitfalls of other works
in the literature?
There are three areas to call into question regarding the work of other authors.

• Hypotheses that have never really been tested. You want to test them.

• Other studies have only been conducted very generally or in one specifi c fi eld.

You want to apply this research to a new area.

• Other studies have limitations. You are trying to overcome these limitations.

The important thing when criticizing others’ work is not to undermine their credibil-
ity. The idea is that if you treat others with respect, they will treat you with respect.

18.12 Should I discuss the limitations of my research?
Yes!
It is essential that you inform readers of any limitations to your research or any
failures or contradicting data. There is no need to consider these aspects of your
research to be totally negative. Your readers will appreciate learning about what
went wrong, as this may help them with their own research.

However, don’t end the Discussion or Conclusions with your limitations. You want
your paper to end on a positive note, so in your final paragraph(s) talk about the

benefits and wider applications of your research.
To learn how to describe and discuss your limitations, see Chapter 9 .