Steps of Research Process

Introduction to Steps of Research Process

In this article we will go through the topic Steps of Research Process.

Why we need Steps of Research Process?

The research process is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it helps us systematically investigate and explore questions, problems, or phenomena, leading to a deeper understanding of various topics. Through structured inquiry and data collection, the research process allows us to uncover new knowledge, identify trends, and test theories, ultimately contributing to the advancement of human understanding. Additionally, research helps inform decision-making in various fields, including science, medicine, business, and social policy. By following a rigorous process, researchers can ensure the validity and reliability of their findings, which enhances the credibility and trustworthiness of the knowledge generated. Moreover, research encourages critical thinking, creativity, and innovation, fostering intellectual curiosity and driving progress in society. Overall, the research process is indispensable for expanding knowledge, solving problems, and driving positive change in the world.

Steps of Research Process

Research process consists of a series of steps or activities necessary to carry out the task in an efficient way. A researcher can achieve his objective by following these steps in the right sequence.

The process of research passes through the following steps

1. Formulating the Research Problem

At the very outset a researcher should define and demarcate the area of research by identifying the problem. He should decide the area of interest or specific aspects of the subject matter which he would like to inquire into. The subject matter of a research problem should be decided after discussing with colleagues and seniors so that chances of repetition or ambiguity can be avoided. To prepare himself well, the researcher should consult available literature on the subject. Proper selection, formulation and understanding of subject matter makes the task of researcher easy and smooth.

2. Study of Literature

 Having defined the problem a researcher should then prepare a bibliography of literature concerning the subject matter of study. This list should include related books; journals research papers, conference proceedings, government reports and such other literature which he has to study carefully to probe into the related issues. Having done so he should start study of the literature and take notes of important things which are going to be helpful and useful to him A Ph.D. student has to prepare a synopsis indicating the basis, object and approach of study while undertaking the research project.

3. Development of Working Hypothesis

Hypothesis is a tentative assumption about various aspects of problem. It is useful in testing the logical conclusions in research. Hypothesis should be very specific and confined to the area of study. There may be one or more hypotheses for the same study. So, the manner in which a hypothesis has been developed has great significance in research. It guides the researcher and keeps him within the defined perimeter of the study. Further it indicates the type of data and information required for the study and the method to be used for analyzing the same.

4. Preparing Research Design

Research design means conceptual framework within which research is to be conducted. It facilitates researcher in getting maximum output with minimum possible expenditure, time and effort. The research design should be prepared keeping in view the purpose of research which can be any of the following four categories. (1) Exploration, (2) Description, (3) Diagnosis, and (4) Experimentation. While preparing research design, the means of procuring information and availability of skill, time and money should also be borne in mind.

5. Determining Sample Design

A sample design is a plan to collect the data. It should be determined well before the collection of data. It is not possible for any researcher to cover entire population so one has to decide the number and type of people from whom the data will be collected for the purpose of research.

 For example, one hundred ATM or credit card holders per city can be a sample to study the use and quality of service provided by credit card companies or ATM banks as the case may be. Number of cities has also to be limited by applying some criterion such as 10 cities in the country with a population of 25 lakhs or more will be covered under the study. There are different types of sample designs based on different criteria out of which an appropriate design can be selected.

These designs are as follows:

(i) Purposive or Deliberate sampling.

(ii) Random sampling.

(iii) Systematic sampling

(iv) Stratified sampling.

(v) Quota sampling.

(vi) Cluster or area sampling.

(vii) Multi stage sampling

(viii) Sequential sampling.

6. Collection of Data

Generally, the available data is either obsolete or inadequate hence data has to be collected afresh for every research inquiry. There are several ways of collecting the data which can be used in appropriate measure with the availability of time, resources and funds available for this purpose. One or more of the following techniques may be adopted for data collection.

(i) By observation.

(ii) Through personal interviews.

(iii) Through telephonic interviews.

(iv) By mailing of questionnaire.

(v) Through schedules.

Read Also : Types of Research

7. Execution of the Project

A time schedule should be drawn for execution of the research project. Besides time there are two other important things-expenditure and adherence to system. It should be ensured that the project progresses as per time schedule and proper system and discipline is maintained in its execution. Further there should be close monitoring of the expenditure so that the project may not suffer on account of over expenditure or wasteful expenditure on certain heads. Proper training should be given to the enumerators who are entrusted the task of interviewing the people and collecting the data. The entire process should be watched carefully and constantly so that the survey work is carried out properly and it yields desired results.

8. Analysis of Data

 After collecting the data, it should be arranged properly and classified into different purposeful categories. The data which are not useful or relevant should be segregated and kept aside. The next step would be coding of data into symbols so that it may be tabulated and counted. The data are thus presented in the form of tables. Now to improve the quality of coding and tabulation, the data should be edited. Some mechanical device like computer can be used for all the statistical operations in order to handle such a large number of facts and data properly and efficiently. Having so tabulated and edited the data, they are analyzed on the basis of various percentage, coefficients etc., by applying necessary statistical methods. The analysis is done to ascertain and verify relationship between the variables in order to draw proper conclusions.

9. Testing of Hypothesis

 After analyzing the data, a researcher would be in a position to test his hypothesis (If he had formulated any). He has to see whether the facts do support the hypothesis or they are not in tune with the later. Different types of tests have been developed by statisticians for this purpose. The test will show whether the hypothesis should be accepted or rejected. If it is accepted then the generalizations can be made accordingly. In case of rejection either the existing theory will be revised or a new theory will be developed.

10. Generalizations and Interpretations

 The testing of hypothesis leads to generalizations i.e. building of theory. This, in fact is the result or the fruit of research. If the researcher had proceeded without a hypothesis, he can explain his findings on the basis of an existing theory. Explaining the outcome of research study in such a manner is called interpretation. It is quite probable that during the course of interpretation new questions are raised which may lead to further research on certain aspects of the subject matter.

11. Report Writing and Presentation

 Having completed his task a researcher has to prepare a report narrating in detail all those steps which were taken by him in the process of research, he has to give his findings and conclusions in the last part. The report being the most important document every care should be taken while drafting it so that it may truly portray the purpose, process and findings of research study without leaving any scope for ambiguity or confusion.

Following is noteworthy guidelines in this context:

(i) The layout of the report should have three parts consisting of (1) Preliminary part- Showing background and purpose of the project, (2) Main part- stating various steps undertaken to accomplish the task, and (3) Concluding part giving conclusion and summary of the findings. At the end of the report an appendix giving bibliography of the material used as reference for the project should also be attached.

(ii) The report should be written in a simple language and presented in a concise form and attractive style. It should not contain vague or ambiguous expressions.

(iii) Charts, graphs and illustrations should be used wherever necessary, useful or relevant.

(iv) Various limitations experienced during the process of research should also be indicated in the report.

(v) An index should be given at the beginning showing various parts and chapters of the report and their numbers.

Conclusion to Steps of Research Process

 The research process is a systematic journey of inquiry and discovery. Through formulating research problems, studying existing literature, and developing hypotheses, researchers lay the groundwork for investigation. With careful planning of research design, data collection, and analysis, they unearth insights and test hypotheses. The culmination involves drawing conclusions, making generalizations, and interpreting findings, which contribute to knowledge in their field. Communication of results through report writing and presentations ensures dissemination and application of newfound knowledge. Thus, the research process is not merely a series of steps, but a dynamic and iterative endeavor driving progress and understanding in academia and beyond.