The methods and materials section tells your reader 'how' you carried out the testing or experiments that were part of your research. It may have sections that explain:
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WHEN the study was carried out
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WHERE the study carried out
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what MATERIALS were used in the study, and
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HOW the study was carried out / WHAT procedures were used
This last point might include issues such as the statistics that were used to analyse data. Remember that a materials and methods section should not present any other information: it should not have results or discussion elements mixed in with the description of materials and methods.
Find out more about Materials and Methods Sections (PDF file)
Examples
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Biology Materials and Methods Section (PDF file)
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Education Materials and Methods Section (PDF file)
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Engineering Materials and Methods Section (PDF file)