Reading tables and graphs
IB PsychologyΒ· Research methodologyΒ· 11 min read
1. Core concept
Interpreting results means reading what tables, graphs and reported statistics actually show β and what they do not. A bar chart compares group averages; a scatterplot shows the direction and strength of a relationship; a line graph such as the serial-position curve shows a pattern across positions. Good interpretation states the trend, notes the size of any difference or relationship, and stays cautious about what can be concluded. The skill is describing the data accurately before leaping to explanation.
2. Key studies
IB Psychology answers must be supported by named studies. Learn these to cite as evidence:
Glanzer & Cunitz (1966)
A filler task before recall removed the recency effect but preserved the primacy effect in the serial-position curve. β A classic results graph students must read: which part of the curve changed under the delay, and what that pattern implies about separate memory stores.
3. Evaluation (AO3)
Strength β objective, shared evidence β A well-made table or graph lets readers see the pattern for themselves and check the researcher's claim against the data.
Limitation β presentation can mislead β Truncated axes, stretched scales or reporting only averages can exaggerate or hide effects, so a graph must be read critically, not taken at face value.
4. Scope
5. Common Pitfalls
Wrong move:
A dramatic-looking graph proves the researcher's claim β a steep line means a big real effect.
Why:
A frequently penalised misconception in IB Psychology exams.
Correct move:
Read the axes and the actual values first: a steep slope can come from a stretched scale, and a visible difference may be small or non-significant. Describe the trend and its size before interpreting.
Going deeper
- Descriptive statisticsthe descriptive numbers behind a graph are RM_5.
- Descriptive vs inferential statisticsjudging whether a visible difference is real is the descriptive-vs-inferential skill (RM_3).