Q: Should I write the definition and working of an instrument or scale that I used in my study?

Detailed Question -

For eg. If I used a scale that can measure anxiety in students in my study, should I mention the details regarding the definition (what is that scale, its working OR should I just write that I used that scale to measure anxiety? 

1 Answer to this question
Answer:

If it is a well-known scale or instrument, such as Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) or Generalized Anxiety Disorder Assessment (GAD-7), it is fine to just mention it rather than provide details about it. Reviewers and readers in the field are likely to be familiar with it, so it would be unnecessary to explain it. If it has an abbreviation, you may mention the complete name the first instance, and after that, use only the abbreviated form, as I have done above.

If it is a new or lesser known scale or tool, it would help to provide a short explanation about it. If you need to provide more details, you may include it as supplementary information.

Related reading: