The Step by Step Learning

Process: A Guide to
Research
Embark on a journey of discovery with us! This presentation outlines the
key steps to conduct thorough research while avoiding confounding
variables. Join us to uncover the secrets of effective research.

QU by Qurat Ul Ain
Evaluate Your Area of Interest
Define Your Objective
Be methodical in defining the
problem you want to
investigate. Use a detailed
operational definition to
guide your research.
Literature Review
Conduct a comprehensive
literature search. Identify any
previously identified
variables or factors in your
intended study.
Variables, Independent,
and Dependent
Create clear definitions of
these key terms. Identify
other potential confounding
variables and rule them out.
Your objective should guide
towards defining the right
independent and dependent
variables.
Cohort, Case Control, and
Experimental Studies
1 Cohort Studies 2 Case Control Studies

Group of people with This study design

similar characteristics
exposed or not to a
particular stimulus.
investigates an event in
search of its cause with no
control over the exposure.
Usually performed when the
objective can't be studied
via experimental design.

3 Experimental Studies

This type of study involves randomizing intervention groups to

examine the outcome. Single and double-blind studies, random
or non-random allocation of subjects, and various interventions
can be used depending on the objective.
Choosing the Right Research Design
1 Pilot Study

Run a small-scale pilot study to identify and address flaws or shortcomings in the
design.

2 Cross-Sectional Study

Studies the prevalence of an outcome in a particular area.

3 Case-Control Study

Studies the relationship between an outcome and its potential causes.

4 Experimental Study

The gold standard, when randomized intervention is used to study outcomes.

Understand Your Population
Population Characteristics Eligibility Criteria

Determine the age, sex, race, education Define criteria that determine if a subject
level, income, and other essential can be included in a study. This should
characteristics of the population being ensure that participants are representative
studied. of the population of interest.

Recruitment Strategy Sampling Techniques

Decide on a strategy to recruit the Choose the appropriate sampling technique,

population of interest taking into account making sure to avoid sampling bias.
the costs, resources, and time constraints.
Data Collection and Analysis
Data Collection
Decide whether to use
interviews, surveys, focus
groups, or observations.
Ensure data integration from
various sources. Verify the
validity and reliability of your
data.
Data Analysis Reporting Results
Determine the data analysis Ensure that significant
techniques you will use. results are reported using
Tools such as spreadsheets, appropriate statistical
statistical software, and measures. Use tables, charts
coding may be useful. or graphs to report your
findings.
Summary and Wrap-Up
Explore Your Passions Design with Confidence

Use your curiosity to enhance your research Use the step by step learning process to plan
skills. Don't be afraid to question long-held research projects confidently. This process will
beliefs or conventional wisdom! help you design more effective and informative
research, and help you enjoy your journey!