Steps In Research Process
1. Identifying the problem: It is a clear finding of the problem that should be studied. In general broad
topic area is selected and then the topic is narrowed down to a specific one. It may be from personal
experiences or literature sources.
The purpose of the study: During the formulation of the problem statement the commonly used
mnemonic is “SMART”
S – Specific
M – Measurable
A – Achievable
R – Relevant
T – Time Bound
This will be easy while writing objectives for the study. Objectives may be single or several.
2. Review of literature: It is one of the most important step in the research process. A literature review
is an account of what has been already established or published on a particular research topic by various
researchers.(University of Toronto 2001)
Sources of literature review
3. Developing the a theoretical/conceptual framework : It is the valuable part of scientific research.
Which helps in the selection of the study characters and in defining them. It also directs to the prediction
and the interpretation of the study findings.
4. Identifying the study Assumptions : Assumptions are held to be true but have not necessarily seen
proven. It influences the questions that are asked. It is based on the information collected and study
interpretation.
There are three types of Assumptions.
· Universal Assumptions – Beliefs that are assumed to be true by a large percentage of Society.
· Assumptions based on theory or research findings- Previous research studies which form the basis for
assumptions in the present study.
· Assumptions that are necessary to carryout the study – Need to conduct a research study.
5. Formulating the Hypothesis or Research Question: Hypothesis predicts the relationship between
two or more characters. According to the asked questions in the problem statement. The hypothesis
furnishes the answer to it. It is testable or verifiable by the information gathered. The research is guided
by research questions that are further elaboration of the problem statement.
6. Selecting the research Design : It is the plan for how the study will be conducted as well as
concerned with the type of information that will be collected.
7. Identifying the population/sample: The population means the complete set of individuals or objects
that possess some common characteristics of interest to the researcher. The subgroup of populations is
called study sample.
8. Conducting a pilot study : A pilot study is a miniature trial version of the planned study. It reveals
the feasibility of the study and helps to test the instruments. It also plays a role in gaining experience
with the study process and it indicates that where the revision should be made.
9. Collecting Data : It is the process of collection or gathering of pieces of information’s facts that are
related to the study.
10. Organizing the data for Analysis : It is the grouping of information’s for tabulation and evaluation
purpose. A statistician should be consulted in the early and phase of the research process. The statistician
can help to follow the appropriate analytical method.
11. Interpreting the findings : After the data are analyzed the finding of the result are compared with
those of previous studies for further recommendation
Related Websites/Software Used In Nursing Research
Prepared by Nguepdjio Nantcho Clavella, Ph. Dc Page 1
