🧪 Methodologically Superficial

“Methodologically superficial” describes a study that lacks depth, rigor, or sophistication in its research design, data collection, analysis, or interpretation — leading to shaky or unconvincing conclusions.

🔍 Formal Understanding:

A methodologically superficial study relies on oversimplified tools, uses weak metrics, ignores confounding variables, or fails to justify its methodology — making its findings scientifically fragile.

⚕️ In Neurosurgery Research:

Using only basic attention tests (e.g., Trail Making Test A) to assess complex cognitive networks

Not including blinding, randomization, or control groups

Lacking longitudinal follow-up or failing to define key variables (e.g., “supramaximal resection”)

🚨 Example:

A study draws conclusions about long-term cognitive outcomes based on 1-week and 1-month tests — without accounting for neuroplasticity, rehabilitation, or adjuvant therapy.

✅ Key Symptoms of Methodological Superficiality:

Over-reliance on simplistic tools for complex phenomena

Inadequate sample size or follow-up

No control for confounders

Minimal or no statistical correction for multiple comparisons