Research Process

Introduction

The research process is a vital procedure that researchers engage in to ensure the accuracy and efficacy of their studies. It consists of several steps, each engaging with others and forming a foundation that leads to a comprehensive and well-executed research study (Singh, 2021). A brief review of relevant literature reveals that the research process can be divided into certain distinct steps, albeit with detailed classification differences among experts.

Specifically, Salkind (2012) states that the research process comprises eight key steps that make up a circle. The first steps involve asking the research question, followed by identifying the factors that are important to the study. The next four steps include formulating a hypothesis, collecting relevant data, and assessing and working with the hypothesis. Step seven involves reconsidering the theory, and the final step is asking new questions. Each of these steps is tightly interlinked, with each one serving as the foundation for the next stage. Similarly, Creswell (2012) outlines six crucial steps in the research process, including identifying a research problem, reviewing the literature, specifying the research purpose, collecting and analyzing data, and reporting and evaluating research. Each of these steps occurs in a specific order, building upon the previous one, and leading to a comprehensive and well-executed research study. In addition, Thomas (2021) describes the research process as starting with the identification of a study issue and ending with publishing the study findings. Thomas also introduces twelve vital steps that researchers should follow when conducting research, including identifying the study problem, conducting a literature review, developing study objectives, selecting a research design, formulating the research protocol, obtaining permission from competent authorities, carrying out the research work and collecting data, analyzing data, interpreting data, preparing the thesis or report, presenting research findings, and publishing the reports.

With a combination and synthesization of the research process from prior research books (ranging from six to twelve steps), this chapter has proposed a seven-essential-step process that researchers can normally follow when conducting a study (Singh, 2021). These steps include identifying a research problem, reviewing the literature, formulating hypotheses, designing research, collecting data, analyzing and interpreting data, and reporting and evaluating research. By following these steps, researchers may ensure that their studies are accurate, reliable, and well-executed.