Identify sections that discuss the pre-experiment or pre-analysis research process. For example, some researchers may conduct a survey to collect the data they are analyzing. When a researcher discusses the data collection process, this is a methodological dimension. Similarly, if a researcher discusses how he composed an experiment, methodology again is being discussed.
Look for a step-by-step explanation of the experimentation process. Ideally, the methods section should be a "narrative of the steps you took in your experiment or study, not a list of instructions such as you might find in a cookbook," according to George Mason University's Guide to Writing in the Biological Sciences. An explanation of the experimentation process differs from general data gathering; the experiment is the testing of gathered data or ideas. This explanation also tends to appear near the beginning of the article.
Look for statistical information, along with a brief description of statistical tests used. Statistics are included among methodological dimensions and are necessary for a final description of the results. George Mason University suggests placing statistical information at the end of an analytical essay, although be aware that this may not be the process followed by all researchers.
Read for sections describing the research problem and how the researcher plans to understand or answer the problem. Any sections that discuss how the researcher intends to collect, analyze, or present information is part of the researcher's methodology.