Guideline 12
Documentation
Researchers document all information relevant to the production of a re- search result as clearly as is required by and is appropriate for the relevant subject area to allow the result to be reviewed and assessed. In general, this also includes documenting individual results that do not support the research hypothesis. The selection of results must be avoided. Where subject-specific recommendations exist for review and assessment, re- searchers create documentation in accordance with these guidelines. If the documentation does not satisfy these requirements, the constraints and the reasons for them are clearly explained. Documentation and re- search results must not be manipulated; they are protected as effectively as possible against manipulation.
Explanations:
An important basis for enabling replication is to make available the information necessary to understand the research (including the research data used or generated, the methodological, evaluation and analytical steps taken, and, if relevant, the development of the hypothesis), to ensure that citations are clear, and, as far as possible, to enable third parties to access this information. Where research software is being developed, the source code is documented.
Comments - General (5)
Research software documentation
24.04.2025 – When the development of research results shall be fully documented, this more often includes the research software used.
Comment on: GL12 (General)
Handling of research data
03.12.2020 – The DFG summarises its expectations of applicants with regard to the handling of project research data in its “Guidelines on the Handling of Research Data”, which was adopted by the Senate of the DFG on 30 September 2015. These guidelines also refer ...
Comment on: GL12 (General)
Scope and completeness of documentation
03.12.2020 – It is important to distinguish between documentation within a research institution and published documentation.
Comment on: GL10 (General) , GL12 (General)
Documentation concept
03.12.2020 – Even in the planning phase of a research project, it is important to consider conceptual questions regarding data management as well as the documentation of project progression, methods and results.
Comment on: GL9 (General) , GL12 (General)
Documentation of results that do not support a hypothesis
03.12.2020 – The non-confirmation of a hypothesis is also a scientific accomplishment that contributes to gaining knowledge.
Comment on: GL12 (General)