Task: Use these three examples of methods section(attached)to answer the prompts given. These are the data(attached) that are used. Upload a Word or pdf file with your typed responses and computer-generated equations. Responses to each written question should be 1-3 sentences in length.

1. The first purpose of a methods section is to describe the data used.

a. Using Example 2, identify what the source, records, and variables in the dataset are.

b. Are you able to identify source, records and variables using Example 1? If not, why?

c. What is one detail provided about the dataset in Example 3 that is not necessary?

2. The second purpose of a methods section is to explain what analyses were performed and why.

a. Based on Example 2, why is this analysis being performed and what were the main calculations needed (not including those that contributed inputs to the main calculations)?

b. Identify two aspects of Example 1 that make it difficult to identify the “what” and “why” of the analysis. Explain why.

c. Explain how the structure (order of information) of Example 2 and Example 3 are different. Which structure made it easier to answer part (a)?

3. The third purpose of a methods section is to allow a person with adequate training to replicate the analysis. The writing should still be as concise (without unneeded detail) as possible.

a. Try to replicate the analysis using just Example 1. Explain where you get stuck.

b. Now try to replicate the analysis using just Example 2. Provide the calculation showing your work (a picture of hand written work is acceptable).

c. Read through Example 3 and identify two pieces of detail that are unnecessary to complete the analysis (even if you found them helpful).

4. Some aspects of technical writing are a matter of personal preference. The green highlighted sections of Examples 2 and 3 are both done correctly and at an appropriate level of detail. Explain which you prefer (there is no correct answer).

5. Write a methods section for the following calculation. You can copy the yellow highlighted part of Example 2 directly, but you should write the rest of the section yourself. (Note: equations should be computer generated).

Determine if groundwater providers are more likely to be small by comparing the probability a provider is small given that it uses groundwater to the probability a provider is small.