Most Important Topics for IGNOU MAPC MPC-005 (Research Methods in Psychology) | Exam Strategy Guide

If you're preparing for IGNOU MAPC Term-End Exams for MPC-005: Research Methods in Psychology, this is your complete and focused guide.

After carefully analyzing the syllabus and PYQs from 2020 to 2024, I’ve compiled a clear list of high-yield topics to focus your revision smartly.

This list is organized into Long Answers (10 marks), Medium Answers (6 marks), and Short Notes (3 marks) for maximum clarity.

🔥 Important Topics for MPC-005 (Research Methods in Psychology)

🔹 High-Frequency Long Answer Topics (10 Marks)

• Research Process and Steps (always asked)

• Research Design

  • Objectives, Types (Single-Factor, Factorial, Quasi-Experimental)

• Reliability and Validity

  • Types of Reliability, Types of Validity

• Variables and Constructs

  • Types, Definitions, Operationalization

• Sampling Methods

  • Probability and Non-Probability Sampling (Simple Random, Purposive, Snowball Sampling)

• Survey Research

  • Types (Cross-sectional, Longitudinal) and Steps

• Experimental vs Field Experiments

• Grounded Theory

  • Steps, Coding (Open, Axial, Selective Coding)

• Discourse Analysis

  • Approaches and Steps

• Qualitative vs Quantitative Research

  • Differences and Relevance in Psychology

• Case Study Method

  • Nature, Steps, Advantages, Limitations

• Factorial Design

  • Concepts like Main Effect, Interaction Effect

🔹 Medium Answer Topics (6 Marks)

• Threats to Internal and External Validity

• Content Analysis (Qualitative Research Technique)

• Ex-Post Facto Research

• Causal Comparative Research

• Misconceptions about Case Study

• Objectives and Qualities of Good Research

• Hypothesis: Types, Formulation, Difficulties

• Ethics in Research

• Advantages and Disadvantages of Correlational Research

• Steps of Field Experiment

• Relevance of Discourse Analysis

• Steps in Writing a Research Report

🔹 Short Notes Topics (3 Marks)

• Types of Hypotheses

• Qualities of Good Research

• Counter-Balanced Design

• Types of Structured Questions

• Phenomenology

• Simple Random Sampling

• Snowball Sampling

• Types of Ethnographic Research

• Objectivity Safeguards in Research

• Interaction Effects in Factorial Design

• Convergent and Discriminant Validity

• Content Analysis vs Thematic Analysis (recent trend)

🧠 Super Important Topics (Highly Likely in Every Exam)

Concept	Focus Area
Research Design	Objectives, Types
Reliability and Validity	Types and Estimation
Grounded Theory	Coding and Steps
Discourse Analysis	Approaches and Application
Sampling Techniques	Probability vs Non-Probability
Experimental vs Quasi-Experimental Research	Key Differences
Survey Research	Steps and Types
Case Study	Nature and Steps

By focusing on these important areas, you can confidently cover 85-90% of the MPC-005 exam.

Prioritize understanding research designs, qualitative methods, and the differences between various types of research approaches. Practice writing structured answers to maximize your marks!

Prepare systematically and you’re on your way to ace MPC-005! 🚀

Good Luck! 🍀

Tags: IGNOU MAPC Research Methods Important Topics, MPC-005 IGNOU Psychology, Research Methods Exam Strategy, MAPC Term End Preparation, IGNOU Psychology Research Methods