Which term is the system of methods a researcher uses to gather data on a particular question?

• A. A research sample
• B. Questionnaire
• C. Dataset
• D. Research methodology

Answer: (D)

Research methodology is the overall approach that guides how a study is conducted, including the plan for collecting and analyzing data for a question. It describes the system of methods a researcher uses to gather data, shaping what is studied, how participants or data sources are chosen, which instruments are used, and how results are interpreted. This makes it the broad framework that governs the entire investigation, not just a single tool or dataset.

Think of a study as a roadmap: the methodology sets the route, the sample or participants are who you study, the questionnaire is one possible instrument you might use to collect responses, and the dataset is the collection of data you obtain. Each of the latter elements plays a part, but they sit within the larger methodological plan.