I've just finished updating my review of six years of AQA examiner reports, one of the most consistent issues I’m seeing is a research methods terminology mix-up.

Examiners have repeatedly flagged weaknesses in students’ understanding and use of key research methods terminology.

In five of the last six exam series I analysed, examiner reports highlighted issues around students:

• Being unable to accurately explain sampling methods

• Struggling to describe participant sampling clearly

• Confusing participant sampling with time sampling or event sampling

And this matters because research methods isn’t just one topic you revise once and forget about. These terms can come up across your A-level Psychology papers, so mixing them up can cost you marks in questions you might not even realise are testing research methods.

So, quick check 👇

Can you confidently explain the difference between:

👥 Participant sampling

⏰ Time sampling

👀 Event sampling

And, importantly, could you apply each one to a research scenario rather than just give a definition?

If you’re not 100% sure, that’s exactly the kind of thing we need to sort out.

📚 A little reminder: in the Psychology Study Club, we tackle Research Methods all the time. Honestly, you will probably get sick of it.

But I promise you, this is in your best interest. 😅

Research Methods is one of those areas where repeated practice really does pay off, and I want you going into your exams feeling confident with it.

👉 Learn more about the Psychology Study Club here.