methodological

This term describes the structural framework of a study, focusing on the logic and rules that govern how data is collected and analyzed. It is most frequently encountered in academic, scientific, and legal contexts to describe the validity of a research design. When used to describe a person's approach, it suggests a high degree of precision and a step-by-step discipline. It differs from being merely methodical by implying a adherence to a specific, established system of principles rather than just being tidy or organized.