The Seven Steps of Research Process

The Seven Steps of Research Process

A systematic process is carried out while conducting a scientific research. It involves an objective and gathering information for a possible solution. Generally, the research process is segmented into 7 basic steps provided as follows: Problem Identification: In the research process, the first most important step is to identify the topic. Treat your topic as questions or problem that needs to be solved. Choosing the right topic is very crucial because the whole research analysis will be based on it. For example, causes of obesity in America or drug problem in Afghanistan. Background Information: After the first step, research process will be austerely related to your elected topic. You need to build foundational knowledge on your chosen subject. The need for investigation related to the topic of your research process is highly important. You need to review about studies conducted in the past and the literature that has been published. If the topic does not seem feasible at this point, choose a new topic and repeat this step. Narrow the Study: A topic can be debated in manifold approaches. The key to conduct a successful research process is to narrow your study. Broader viewpoints can generalize your research. To avoid such circumstances, narrow your study which interest you and stick to it. Sketch different ideas to build strategies. This will help you focus on pros and cons of your theme. Remember, this step is possible when you have thoroughly conducted the background information. Research Design: This step involves building an abstract structure of your research. It should comprise of all the components in a coherent and logical way. This will ensure your efficiency in problem solving. Nature and purpose of the research can be the key elements for research design. This part requires the contemplation of sources, proposals, measurements and data analysis. Sampling: Designing a sample is the prime requirement of a research process. It’s a way to study the problem by evaluating the specific areas or population. Researcher can choose between probability and non-probability sampling. Data Collection: Data collection can be primary or secondary. For intensive or new research, primary search is used which includes experiment, questionnaire, observation and interview. For extensive researches, secondary data is collected. It comprises of literature reviews, official and unofficial reports or internet approach. Data Analysis: This final step includes the extraction and analysis of the entire process conducted. Results of the whole research are reviewed and summarized directly relating to the main topic. It’s a very complex step in which every step performed is verified. The steps of research can be extended or truncated, depending on the availability of tools and the nature of study. A comprehensive research requires dedication of time and efforts.

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