The company said that "fundamental fairness" required a clear explanation of the FDA's methodology and analysis.

In deciding to publish "Women and Love," Ms. Machemer said, Knopf relied on the author's reputation, her explanation of her methodology and "the interior logic of the manscript."

Read a full explanation of our methodology.

Almost none of the surveys include a useful explanation of their methodology or parameters.

We are providing a more complete explanation of our methodology and glossary terms, as well as a list of Frequently Asked Questions.

Vladimir Karpechenko, a supervisor of the C.I.S. observation missions, refused requests for interviews and declined to provide explanations of their methodology.