research books for beginners

10 Best Research Books For Qualitative And Quantitative Research

Are you looking for the best research books? Take a look at some of the best books on research methods below.

Research methodology comes in many shapes and forms. Regardless of whether you are interested in qualitative or quantitative research, it is essential to find a book that can help you plan your research project adequately. Research design can vary from hard sciences to social sciences, but data analysis following a case study is usually similar. Therefore, you need a practical guide that can help you complete a research project and finish your research paper.

1. Qualitative Research: A Guide To Design And Implementation, 4th Edition

2. research design: qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches, 4th edition, 3. the research methods knowledge base, 3rd edition, 4. the craft of research, 5. doing your research project: open up study skills, 5th edition, 6. qualitative inquiry and research design: choosing among five approaches, 3rd edition, 7. the essential guide to doing your research project, 2nd edition, 8. introducing research methodology: a beginner’s guide to doing a research project, 2nd edition, 9. the sage handbook of qualitative research, 5th edition, 10. research methods in education, 7th edition, the final word on the best research books, what is the difference between quantitative research and qualitative research, how do i figure out which academic journal to publish my research in, further reading.

Unlimited access to more than 5,500 nonfiction bestsellers. Free trial available.

When someone talks about qualitative research in academia, they refer to research that focuses on overall concepts and takeaways instead of complex numbers. For those conducting academic research, understanding the basics of this process is critical. Qualitative Research: A Guide to Design and Implementation, by Sharan B. Merriam and Elizabeth J. Tisdell, 4th edition, is one of the best books available because it focuses on action research, mixed methods, online data sources, and some of the latest technology that people can use to complete their projects.

A significant portion of this book focuses on data analysis software packages, which have become critically important in an era where publishing in the best academic journals is critical for every successful researcher. Finally, this book explains topics so that nearly everyone can understand.

• Merriam, Sharan B. (Author)
• English (Publication Language)
• 368 Pages - 08/24/2015 (Publication Date) - John Wiley & Sons (Publisher)

Suppose you are looking for a book that can teach you the best research methodology. In that case, you will want to check out Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches by John W. Creswell, 4th edition. John Creswell is one of the most well-respected writers in case study research.

As books on how to research go, this one on quantitative and qualitative research methods is a great tool that will help you learn the basics of forming a research project in every field. This book covers philosophical assumptions and research projects, theory and research approaches, and conducts an effective literature review. These elements are also crucial in helping you form a step-by-step guide for your upcoming research project, and this book will teach you the basics of data analysis.

• Research Design
• Creswell, John W. (Author)
• 273 Pages - 04/22/2024 (Publication Date) - SAGE Publications, Inc (Publisher)

The first two editions were already solid, but the third edition of The Research Methods Knowledge Base, by William M.K. Trochim and James P. Donnelly, features many updates to quantitative and qualitative research methods, teaching graduate students the basics of data collection before diving into the details for more advanced learners.

One of the significant advantages of this text is that it is a comprehensive tool that can be used for both undergraduate and graduate-level courses. It has a relatively informal style and conversational feel, which means readers will not be intimidated by walls of text. The research methods it teaches are straightforward, applicable, and relevant to anyone looking to complete a research project in the current era.

• Mint Condition
• Dispatch same day for order received before 12 noon
• Guaranteed packaging
• No quibbles returns

The Craft of Research, by Wayne C. Booth, Gregory C. Colomb, and Joseph M. Williams, covers various research approaches that teach everyone the basics of forming a solid research project. In particular, this book focuses on what to do with the data after it has been collected.

People need to think about how their readers will interpret the structure of the paper, proactively anticipating questions they might have. By answering the reader’s questions in the initial version of the paper, it is easier to hold their attention from start to finish.

Of course, one of the most critical questions that must be asked when writing a research paper is, “so, what? Why does this information matter?” Researchers can keep this in mind while writing the introduction and conclusion of the paper so they will have an easier time constructing a powerful academic manuscript that is more likely to be accepted into the top academic journals.

• Booth, Wayne C. (Author)
• 336 Pages - 10/18/2016 (Publication Date) - University of Chicago Press (Publisher)

Doing Your Research Project: Open Up Study Skills, by Judith Bell, is a must-read for new researchers looking to make their way in academic research. This book is helpful because it teaches people how to conduct a research project using step-by-step advice. A research project can be daunting for new learners because it’s easy to focus on the final project and feel intimidated before taking the first step.

This book is indispensable because it teaches people everything they need to know to develop a research project, draft a hypothesis, carry out the project, and finalize a research paper after conducting detailed data analysis. Furthermore, this text will dive into common mistakes, pitfalls, and obstacles researchers need to overcome. Time is your most valuable resource, and nobody wants to spend time on trials that will not be relevant to the final project.

• Bell, Judith (Author)
• 296 Pages - 05/01/2010 (Publication Date) - Open University Press (Publisher)

Qualitative Inquiry And Research Design: Choose Among Five Approaches, 3rd Edition, Is The Latest In A Line Of Best-Selling Research Books From Creswell. This Book Ties Into People’s Philosophical Underpinnings When Developing A Research Project. It Also Looks At The History Of Various Research Projects, Which Serve As An Example For The Reader.

Overall, there are five traditions in qualitative research; grounded theory, phenomenology, narrative research, case study, and ethnography. Creswell uses an accessible writing style to help the reader understand when to use each of these narratives. Then, he dives into strategies for writing research papers using each of these approaches.

• Used Book in Good Condition
• 472 Pages - 03/14/2012 (Publication Date) - SAGE Publications, Inc (Publisher)

The Essential Guide To Doing Your Research Project by Zina O’Leary is geared more toward young learners. As books on how to research, it focuses on how to develop a research project, analyze data, and write up the results. Every stage of the book is clearly explained, with the author specifying why it is essential to carry out that step correctly.

It also focuses on practical tips and tricks that learners can use to successfully carry out their research projects. The book includes helpful chapter summaries, a complete glossary, and boxed definitions for essential terms that should not be overlooked. The author also has a variety of suggestions for further reading, which is helpful for more advanced learners who may want to pick up a text that is a bit more detailed. Finally, the book also comes with access to a companion website. The website includes journal articles, real projects, worksheets, and podcasts.

• O′Leary, Zina (Author)
• 384 Pages - 12/20/2013 (Publication Date) - SAGE Publications Ltd (Publisher)

Introducing Research Methodology: A Beginner’s Guide to doing a research project, by Uwe Flick is ideal for new researchers. the author guides readers through the fundamentals that underpin a strong research project. He focuses on essential steps, common mistakes, and ways to expedite the research process.

Then, the author dives into some of the most critical skills readers need to have if they want to collect and analyze data properly. he goes into basic organizational tactics that make data easier to interpret, explains how to shorten the analytical process, and dives into real-life quantitative and qualitative research methods. He uses his research as an example, explaining to people how to pull out the essential parts of the research project before writing them up.

• Flick, Uwe (Author)
• 320 Pages - 04/14/2015 (Publication Date) - SAGE Publications Ltd (Publisher)

The SAGE Handbook of Qualitative Research by Norman K. Denzin and Yvonna S. Lincoln focuses on global research. this text teaches readers how to synthesize existing literature, identify current research, and focus on caps that can be filled. the authors gather contributions from some of the most well-renowned researchers, addressing issues in research projects today. this text focuses more on research regarding social justice. therefore, this is better for people in the social sciences.

• Hardcover Book
• 992 Pages - 02/15/2017 (Publication Date) - SAGE Publications, Inc (Publisher)

Research Methods in Education, by Louis Cohen, Lawrence Manon, and Keith Morrison, is essential for students and professional researchers who want to learn how to create a comprehensive research project. It’s broken up into helpful chapters wrapped up by a convenient summary at the end, explaining to readers how to hit the high points.

Research Methods in Education also comes with a helpful companion website that contains PowerPoint slides for every chapter. This book can be read independently and discussed with a classroom full of students. The book has been written at a level that is accessible even to high school students, but the basics can be a helpful review for graduate researchers.

• Cohen, Louis (Author)
• 944 Pages - 10/27/2017 (Publication Date) - Routledge (Publisher)

Academic research comes in many shapes and forms, with qualitative and quantitative research having high points; however, the basics are the same across all fields. Researchers need to learn how to develop a hypothesis, put together a research methodology, collect their data, interpret it, and write up their findings.

It can be helpful to use the books about research above to refine your research methods . Each book focuses on a slightly different facet of academic research, so readers need to find the right book to meet their needs. With a substantial text, readers can avoid common mistakes, follow in the footsteps of successful researchers, and increase their chances of writing a solid research paper for school or getting their paper accepted into an academic journal.

Books About Research FAQs

Quantitative research focuses more on numbers and statistics. This type of research is more common in hard sciences such as biology, chemistry, and physics.

Qualitative research focuses more on overall meanings and concepts. This type of research is more common in social sciences such as anthropology, archaeology, and research topics focusing on social justice.

It would help compare prior articles in that academic journal to the article you have written. Most academic journals focus on a specific field, and you need to submit your article to a publication that shares research articles similar to your own. Be sure to consider the prestige of the journal before submitting your paper.

If you enjoyed this round-up of the best research books, you might also like our top 11 essay writing tips for students . 

You might also find our guide on essay topics for students  helpful. 

Bryan Collins is the owner of Become a Writer Today. He's an author from Ireland who helps writers build authority and earn a living from their creative work. He's also a former Forbes columnist and his work has appeared in publications like Lifehacker and Fast Company.

View all posts

• Request new password
• Create a new account

Research Methodology: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Student resources, welcome to the companion website.

Welcome to the companion website for Research Methodology, 4 th Edition,  by Ranjit Kumar . The resources on the site have been specifically designed to support your study.

On this website you will find:

• Video and Multimedia
• Recommended Readings
• Web Resources
• Tables and Figures from the Book

Instructors can log in to access:

• PowerPoint® Slides
• Instructor’s Manual

About the book:

Research Methodology: A Step by Step Guide for Beginners has been written specifically for those with no previous experience of research or research methodology. Written in a logical and accessible style and providing helpful techniques and examples, it breaks the process of designing and doing a research project into eight manageable operational steps. The book guides you through your project from beginning to end by offering practical advice on:

• formulating a research question
• ethical considerations
• carrying out a literature review
• choosing a research design
• selecting a sample
• collecting and analysing qualitative and quantitative data
• writing a research report.

The book is essential reading for undergraduate and postgraduate students in the social sciences embarking on quantitative or qualitative research projects.

Available with  Perusall —an eBook that makes it easier to prepare for class Perusall  is an award-winning eBook platform featuring social annotation tools that allow students and instructors to collaboratively mark up and discuss their SAGE textbook. Backed by research and supported by technological innovations developed at Harvard University, this process of learning through collaborative annotation keeps your students engaged and makes teaching easier and more effective.  Learn more .

Acknowledgments

The author and SAGE would like to thank the reviewers of the new edition for their time, help and feedback.

Javed Vassilis Khan, Senior Lecturer, NHTV University  Jonathan Lord, Lecturer, University of Salford  Liane Purnell, Senior Lecturer, Newman University Luke Sloan, Lecturer in Quantitative Methods, Cardiff University Margaret Hanson, Senior Lecture in Health and Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University  Paul Willard, Lecturer in Event Management, La Trobe University (Bendigo campus)

A very special thanks to Stephanie Fleischer, Senior Lecturer in Research Methods from the  University of Brighton for creating the companion website resources accompanying the new edition of Research Methodology: A Step-by-step guide for Beginners .

Disclaimer:

This website may contain links to both internal and external websites. All links included were active at the time the website was launched. SAGE does not operate these external websites and does not necessarily endorse the views expressed within them. SAGE cannot take responsibility for the changing content or nature of linked sites, as these sites are outside of our control and subject to change without our knowledge. If you do find an inactive link to an external website, please try to locate that website by using a search engine. SAGE will endeavour to update inactive or broken links when possible.

For instructors

Access resources that are only available to Faculty and Administrative Staff.

Want to explore the book further?

Order Review Copy

• Technical Support
• Find My Rep

You are here

Successful Qualitative Research A Practical Guide for Beginners

• Virginia Braun - University of Auckland, New Zealand
• Victoria Clarke - University of the West of England, UK
• Description

Uniquely, the authors provide a "patterns framework" to qualitative data analysis in this book, also known as "thematic analysis." The authors walk you through a basic thematic approach, and compare and contrast this with other approaches. This discussion of commonalities, explaining why and when each method should be used, and in the context of looking at patterns, will provide you with complete confidence for your qualitative research journey.

This textbook will be an essential textbook for undergraduates and postgraduates taking a course in qualitative research or using qualitative approaches in a research project.

See what’s new to this edition by selecting the Features tab on this page. Should you need additional information or have questions regarding the HEOA information provided for this title, including what is new to this edition, please email [email protected] . Please include your name, contact information, and the name of the title for which you would like more information. For information on the HEOA, please go to http://ed.gov/policy/highered/leg/hea08/index.html .

For assistance with your order: Please email us at [email protected] or connect with your SAGE representative.

SAGE 2455 Teller Road Thousand Oaks, CA 91320 www.sagepub.com

Supplements

'Like water wings for the qualitative research beginner, Successful Qualitative Research: A Practical Guide for Beginners gracefully supports methodological novices until they learn to swim elegantly, on their own, in qualitative waters… As a teacher, researcher or a student, you will want to thank the gifted methodologists Braun and Clarke for making it all seem so easy' Michelle Fine The City University of New York, NY, USA

'This is an admirably useful textbook that provides an uncommonly accessible, practical, and absorbing introduction for beginners to qualitative research'

Eva Magnusson Umeå University, UMEÅ, Sweden

'A clear, engaging and intelligent qualitative research guide which will greatly appeal to students new to this area. The authors should be commended for their lively style and attention to often hidden processes and practices involved in successful qualitative research' Brendan Gough Leeds Metropolitan University

'This book provides an excellent introduction to qualitative research, combining in-depth explanation of the distinctive nature and goals of qualitative research methods with practical tips and helpful examples for beginners'

Lucy Yardley University of Southampton

'Virginia Braun and Victoria Clarke present a clear and comprehensive road map for executing a successful qualitative study. They do so in a very engaging way that really brings the process to life for the reader. This book will be an essential read for anyone contemplating a qualitative research project' Guy Faulkner University of Toronto

'This practical guide refreshingly demystifies the qualitative research process, relentlessly pushing an agenda for uncomplicated but high standards across the board and generously enabling anyone, no matter how inexperienced, to get on with it and do it well. It is the kind of guide that not only says how to do it but that actually shows  how to do it, with a myriad of real, reproduced examples, extremely useful tables, boxes, chapter summaries, questions for discussion, exercises and lists of resources including references to a companion website with even more guidance and examples.'

Very easy to read and understand. Very good for beginners to qualitative research.

An excellent well-laid out textbook reference in research methodology, highly recommendable to students and lecturers.

An excellent book that clearly outlines the principles of qualitative research. An essential read for undergraduate students interested in qualitative research.

Clear, to the point, relevant to today's world.

Added to reading list

This excellent book is just what our second-year Psychology students need to complete a really thorough Qual assignment.

Written in an accessible style. Key aspects and concepts clearly explained. Vey good range of topics covered

Excellent text, that students love and that covers all elements of qualitative research. An excellent guide for students starting out on qualitative research. Have now ordered the latest edition

• Full of useful tips and strategies for successful qualitative work, for example considering the nervous student not just the beginner student.
• Skills-based, utilising a range of pedagogical features to encourage you to apply particular techniques and learn from your experience.
• The authors use the same dataset throughout - reproduced in full (with associated research materials) on the companion website - to help you make comparisons across different analytical approaches.
• A comprehensive suite of student support materials, including practice exam questions, can be found online at  www.sagepub.com/braunandclarke .

Preview this book

Sample materials & chapters, for instructors, select a purchasing option, related products.

• Find My Rep

You are here

Research Methodology A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

• Ranjit Kumar - University of Western Australia, Australia
• Description
• Author(s) / Editor(s)

Designed with students, for students and now shortlisted for the British Book Design and Production Awards 2019!

Eight steps, two pathways, one book.  The Fifth Edition of the bestseller  Research Methodology  has reimagined, redesigned, and fully renovated how a textbook can help students achieve success in their methods course or research project.

Eight steps:  Foolproof for any beginner researcher, the book breaks the process of designing and doing a research project into achievable stages. It delivers students from research problem to their written research report at the pace they need, with clear explanations, DIY tasks and study skills support.  In a new  landscape format  it presents figures, models and visualizations elegantly, so they don't break over a page, making even complex concepts easier to understand.

Two pathways:  With an innovative, beautiful design, regular progress checkpoints have been built into the book and its online resources. As students proceed through the 8 steps, each chapter provides regular opportunities for students to check understanding or give themselves a challenge. Each pathway then gives them the resources they need.

• Confused? Stop, practise with quizzes and flashcards, or use a video to look at a concept a different way.
• Up for a challenge? Access a wealth of additional material including research articles, readings, case studies, activities, bibliography tools and inspiration to pursue your curiosity, impress your lecturer, and nail your assignments.

With this one book,  every student gets what they need to succeed. It is the perfect essential text for students and beginner researchers across the social sciences.

Supplements

Good book for beginner

This is an excellent resource on research methodology and very accessible for the students I teach.

This is an excellent book BUT this edition is HIDEOUS.

It is a weird shape and won't fit well on our library shelves. One of my students mentioned she keeps her's on the floor.

The text is at times pink on pink or blue on blue and the contrast is terrible - that's an accessibility issue.

On a more subjective note, the fonts and the neons look like someone was trying to be cool and trendy and it smacks of 'hello fellow kids'. Fire the graphic designer.

I have suggested that my students buy 4th eds used if possible as it looks like a grow-up book for adults, and will fit on a bookshelf, and is actually LEGIBLE especially if they have any eye issues, colour blindness or specific learning difficulties

Standard classic text - appropriate for any level of study. Excellent overview of concepts and terminology.

A colourful and easy to use text book which I think the students will enjoy.

Fantastic research book. Very easy to read, well laid out and informative

An extremely detailed yet accessible introduction to conducting and evaluating research in a variety of subjects. This is a really helpful resource for students and is presented in an engaging manner.

I am no longer the course leader for this module but this is the best book on the market It is so well structured and very informative in an easier to read format than many other books on this topic

Great overview of research in a user friendly presentation, love the bright colours and unusual landscape layout.

Love this book. Very useful to dip in an out of and is bright and engaging. Clearly defined chapters with a good range of practical activities and exercises to reinforce learning. Student friendly and the bonus of online resources.

Preview this book

Sample materials & chapters, ranjit kumar.

Dr Ranjit Kumar taught at Curtin University of Technology and the University of Western Australia for 30 years. He is currently a freelance research and evaluation consultant in Western Australia. More About Author

For instructors

Purchasing options.

Please select a format:

Order from:

• Buy from SAGE

Related Products

A Practical Guide to Biomedical Research

for the Aspiring Scientist

• © 2017
• Peter Agger 0 ,
• Robert S. Stephenson 1 ,
• J. Michael Hasenkam 2

Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

Department of Surgery, Witwatersrand University Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa

Providing guidance for successful entry into the field of biomedical research

Offers practical tips and tricks for research beginners

Bridging the gap between research methodology books for layman and extensive textbooks

33k Accesses

1 Citations

14 Altmetric

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this book

• Available as EPUB and PDF
• Read on any device
• Instant download
• Own it forever
• Compact, lightweight edition
• Dispatched in 3 to 5 business days
• Free shipping worldwide - see info

Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout

Other ways to access

Licence this eBook for your library

Institutional subscriptions

Table of contents (19 chapters)

Front matter, the first steps into research.

• Peter Agger, Robert S. Stephenson, J. Michael Hasenkam

Approaches to Research

The right supervisor for you, defining your project, searching for scientific literature, advanced literature search, how to read a scientific publication, the scientific protocol, ethics and commercialisation, applying for funding, data handling, data analysis, the scientific conference, the poster presentation, the oral presentation, the scientific manuscript.

• Research career
• Research guide
• Research methods
• Research protocol
• Research publication

About this book

This book advises and supports novice researchers in taking their first steps into the world of scientific research. Through practical tips and tricks presented in a clear, concise and step-wise manner, the book describes the entire research process from idea to publication. It also gives the reader insight into the vast opportunities a research career can provide. The books target demographic is aspiring researchers within the biomedical professions, be it medical students, young doctors, nurses, engineers, physiotherapists etc. The book will help aspirational inexperienced researchers turn their intentions into actions, providing crucial guidance for successful entry into the field of biomedical research.

Authors and Affiliations

Peter Agger, Robert S. Stephenson

J. Michael Hasenkam

About the authors

Peter Agger MD PhD  is an assistant professor pursuing a senior research career within congenital heart disease. In parallel he is in clinical training to become a paediatrician. He is co-author on numerous peer reviewed papers and he is an experienced teacher and supervisor for young researchers and medical doctors.

Robert S. Stephenson BSc PhD  is a Marie Skłodowska-Curie fellow and a full time researcher within the field of functional cardiac anatomy. He has published several peer reviewed papers including ground-breaking work on the cardiac conduction system. He has been affiliated with several universities across the globe and is an experienced teacher.

Bibliographic Information

Book Title : A Practical Guide to Biomedical Research

Book Subtitle : for the Aspiring Scientist

Authors : Peter Agger, Robert S. Stephenson, J. Michael Hasenkam

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-63582-8

Publisher : Springer Cham

eBook Packages : Biomedical and Life Sciences , Biomedical and Life Sciences (R0)

Copyright Information : Springer International Publishing AG 2017

Softcover ISBN : 978-3-319-63581-1 Published: 08 November 2017

eBook ISBN : 978-3-319-63582-8 Published: 27 October 2017

Edition Number : 1

Number of Pages : XVI, 184

Number of Illustrations : 6 b/w illustrations, 52 illustrations in colour

Topics : Biomedicine general , Science Education , Popular Life Sciences

• Publish with us

Policies and ethics

• Find a journal
• Track your research

Academia.edu no longer supports Internet Explorer.

To browse Academia.edu and the wider internet faster and more securely, please take a few seconds to  upgrade your browser .

Enter the email address you signed up with and we'll email you a reset link.

• We're Hiring!
• Help Center

A Guide to Research Methodology for Beginners

This book is the outcome of more than four decades of experience of the author in teaching and research field. Research is a creative process and the topic of research methodology is complex and varied. The basic premise for writing this book is that research methods can be taught and learnt. The emphasis is on developing a research outlook and a frame of mind for carrying out research. The book presents current methodological techniques used in interdisciplinary research along with illustrated and worked out examples. This book is well equipped with fundamentals of research and research designs. All efforts have been made to present Research, its meaning, intention and usefulness. Focussed in designing of research programme, selection of variables, collection of data and their analysis to interpret the data are discussed extensively. Statistical tools are complemented with examples, making the complicated subject like statistics simplest usable form. The importance of software, like MS Excel, SPSS, for statistical analyses is included. Written in a simple language, it covers all aspects of management of data with details of statistical tools required for analysis in a research work. Complete with a glossary of key terms and guides to further reading, this book is an essential text for anyone coming to research for the first time and is widely relevant across the disciplines of sciences. This book is designed to introduce Masters, and doctoral students to the process of conducting scientific research in the life sciences, social sciences, education, public health, and related scientific disciplines. It conforms to the core syllabus of many universities and institutes. The target audience for this book includes those are going to start research as graduate students, junior researchers, and professors teaching courses on research methods. The book entitled “A guide to Research Methodology for Beginners” is succinct and compact by design focusing only on essential concepts rather than burden students with a voluminous text on top of their assigned readings. The book is structured into the following nine chapters. Chapter-1: What is Scientific Research? Chapter-2: Literature Review Chapter-3: How to develop a Research Questions & Hypotheses Chapter-4: Research Methods and the Research Design Chapter-5: Concept of Variables, Levels and Scales of Measurements for Data collection Chapter-6: Data Analysis, Management and Presentation Chapter-7: Tips for Writing Research Report Chapter-8: Glossary Related to Research Methodology Chapter-9: References It is a comprehensive and compact source for basic concepts in research and can serve as a stand-alone text or as a supplement to research readings in any doctoral seminar or research methods class. The target audience for this book includes those are going to start research as graduate students, junior researchers, and professors teaching courses on research methods.

Related Papers

Nova Southeastern University

Addisalem Tadesse

The authors of this work reviewed Ranjit Kumar's book entitled Research Methodology: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners (3 rd ed.). This book can provide desirable skills for readers regarding writing a successful research project and implementing research methods with confidence. It goes beyond teaching students how to conduct academic qualitative and quantitative research. It can also be adapted to various projects that scholars will encounter throughout their careers.

Skyfox Publishing Group

Dr. T. Vel murugan

This book cover the following topics: 1. Research Concepts 2. Research Problem 3. Research Design 4.Sampling Techniques 5. Data collection, Analysis & Report Writing

Xochitl Ortiz

The authors felt during their several years of teaching experience that students fail to understand the books written on Research Methodology because generally they are written in technical language. Since this course is not taught before the Master’s degree, the students are not familiar with its vocabulary, methodology and course contents. The authors have made an attempt to write it in very non- technical language. It has been attempted that students who try to understand the research methodology through self-learning may also find it easy. The chapters are written with that approach. Even those students who intend to attain high level of knowledge of the research methodology in social sciences will find this book very helpful in understanding the basic concepts before they read any book on research methodology. This book is useful those students who offer the Research Methodology at Post Graduation and M.Phil. Level. This book is also very useful for Ph.D. Course Work examinations.

Scholarly Communication and the Publish or Perish Pressures of Academia A volume in the Advances in Knowledge Acquisition, Transfer, and Management (AKATM) Book Series

Dr. Naresh A . Babariya , Alka V. Gohel

The most important of research methodology in research study it is necessary for a researcher to design a methodology for the problem chosen and systematically solves the problem. Formulation of the research problem is to decide on a broad subject area on which has thorough knowledge and second important responsibility in research is to compare findings, it is literature review plays an extremely important role. The literature review is part of the research process and makes a valuable contribution to almost every operational step. A good research design provides information concerning with the selection of the sample population treatments and controls to be imposed and research work cannot be undertaken without sampling. Collecting the data and create data structure as organizing the data, analyzing the data help of different statistical method, summarizing the analysis, and using these results for making judgments, decisions and predictions. Keywords: Research Problem, Economical Plan, Developing Ideas, Research Strategy, Sampling Design, Theoretical Procedures, Experimental Studies, Numerical Schemes, Statistical Techniques.

Palwasha Jalal

The Cyprus Journal of Sciences

Kakia Avgousti

Carrying out a research paper is concerned to be a simple task. However, in practice it is far more complicated. The most important factor is for the researcher to know the main principles of the research process. It is vital to identify the research methods progression, the meaning and purpose of the research to be carried out, by the formulation of hypothesis, aims and questions, the use of methodology-both quantitative and qualitative-their characteristics and suitability when utilized, and the need of sampling and ethical considerations. By the use of theoretical framework, the current research paper firstly discusses and analyses the principles of bringing about a research paper, and most importantly it emphasizes the advantages and disadvantages of research methodology.

kassu sileyew

There are a number of approaches used in this research method design. The purpose of this chapter is to design the methodology of the research approach through mixed types of research techniques. The research approach also supports the researcher on how to come across the research result findings. In this chapter, the general design of the research and the methods used for data collection are explained in detail. It includes three main parts. The first part gives a highlight about the dissertation design. The second part discusses about qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. The last part illustrates the general research framework. The purpose of this section is to indicate how the research was conducted throughout the study periods.

Ponsian P R O T Ntui

Wafae Barkani

iosrjournals.org

Best Research Methodology Books for Researchers and Academics

The best research methodology books can help research students, academics, and potential scholars, as academic research papers require a thorough reading of the research literature.

One must be familiar with different research paradigms, methods, epistemological and ontological stances, and more.

These books can help you start your research. They will teach you research methodology and how to build a study design.

• Table of Contents

1- Research Methodology: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

The Fifth Edition of the bestselling Research Methodology has reimagined, rebuilt, and completely renovated how a textbook may help students succeed in methods courses and research projects.

The book simplifies research project conception and execution for novices. It guides students from research topic to written report at their pace with clear explanations, DIY tasks, and study skills support.

2- Designing Research for Publication

The book Designing Research for Publication discusses strategies for avoiding research related issues. It is intended in particular for academics who are just starting out in their careers and who must quickly understand the fundamentals of research and publication, as well as for those who wish to support them.

3- Applied Qualitative Research Design: A Total Quality Framework Approach 

This unique publication presents a framework for designing, administering, and analyzing credible and relevant qualitative research investigations. In-depth interviews, focus group discussions, ethnography, content analysis, and case study and narrative research are used in many fields to demonstrate their strengths, limitations, and applications.

Chapters demonstrate how to apply each method within a paradigm-neutral and flexible Total Quality Framework (TQF) of Credibility, Analyzability, Transparency, and Usefulness. Unlike other texts, concept validity, InterResearch reliability, researcher bias, and verification procedures are covered extensively.

The book applies the TQF to creating, reviewing, and assessing qualitative research proposals and publications.

4- Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches

The comparison of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methodologies study design was pioneered by this best-selling book. John W. Creswell provides an overview of philosophical presuppositions for each of the three approaches, as well as a look at key components of the research process, a review of the literature, an evaluation of the use of theory in research applications, and reflections on the value of writing and ethics in scholarly inquiry.

5- Qualitative Research: A Guide to Design and Implementation

Qualitative Research explains, designs, conducts, and presents qualitative research studies. This fourth volume covers mixed methodologies, action research, arts-based research, internet data sources, data analysis tools, and narrative and poetic analysis strategies.

A new part presents qualitative research findings in numerous ways. This reader-friendly, jargon-free book emphasizes the relevance of a theoretical framework in study design and provides practical help.

6- The Research Methods Knowledge Base, 3rd Edition

The updated third edition of The Research methods Knowledge Base covers quantitative and qualitative methodologies.

It is suitable for introductory comprehensive undergraduate or graduate courses in many fields. Its conversational, informal manner simplifies difficult topics for students. From developing a research question through publishing, a final report, the Research Methods Knowledge Base addresses practical and technical sampling, measurement, design, and analytic difficulties.

7- Qualitative Inquiry and Research Design: Choosing Among Five Approaches

John W. Creswell’s Third Edition of his bestselling text examines narrative research, phenomenology, grounded theory , ethnography, and case study’s philosophical foundations, history, and major aspects.

The author connects research designs to each inquiry tradition in his approachable writing style. He examines theoretical frameworks , quality standards, and methods for writing study introductions, collecting data, analyzing data, producing narratives, and confirming outcomes.

8- Doing Your Research Project (Open Up Study Skills)

Step-by-step instructions for a great research project. Research can be daunting, especially for first timers, but this indispensable book provides everything you need to prepare for research, draught and finalize a methodologically sound and well-written report or thesis,and warns you of potential pitfalls to avoid wasting time on false trails.

9- Research Methods in Education

‘Research Methods in Education is necessary reading for professional researchers and undergraduate and postgraduate education students who need to grasp how to plan, conduct, analyze, and use research.

Ideal for instructors and students, PowerPoint slides for each chapter define the chapter structure and summarize the major ideas. The book mentions several internet resources.

10- Introducing Research Methodology: A Beginner′s Guide to Doing a Research Project

Uwe Flick guides new researchers through research project creation in the Second Edition of this textbook. For their first assignment, the book teaches data gathering and analytic skills and the research process. It includes several examples from the author’s study and covers quantitative and qualitative methodologies.

11- The Essential Guide to Doing Your Research Project

The book provides step-by-step instructions for conducting your study, from beginning to end, including data analysis and writing up. Each step is carefully outlined, stressing best practices while offering helpful hints and realistic advice for actually conducting research.

12- The SAGE Handbook of Qualitative Research

The new edition carries on the book’s legacy of synthesizing an existing literature, defining the present, and defining the future of qualitative research by offering the greatest thinking from leading academics worldwide.

The editors and authors discuss social justice concerns and look at how the struggles of individuals can inform public issues and ultimately influence social policy. They are committed to solving inequality concerns, and their writings are supported by a critical framework.

Their goal is to demonstrate how qualitative research techniques may lead to positive change in the world, just like in earlier editions.

Their goal, like with earlier editions, is to demonstrate how qualitative research practices may lead to constructive change in the world.

13- The Foundations of Social Research: Meaning and Perspective in the Research Process  

Selecting a study methodology might be confusing. How can you be certain that the technique you have chosen is appropriate or that the methodology combination you have chosen is consistent with the theoretical angle you want to adopt?

This book makes a very clear and precise connection between methodology and theory, guiding readers through the confusing terminology minefield.

The author explains the philosophical roots of different schools of thought, outlines the main epistemological positions and theoretical views that influence and shape present social research, and demonstrates how diverse disciplines contribute to the practice of social research as it is known today.

Other articles

Please read through some of our other articles with examples and explanations if you’d like to learn more about research methodology.

• Management Information System
• Blockchain Technology
• ChatGPT: Top Picks for ChatGPT4 Users
• How to Write a Literature Review
• Artificial Intelligence
• From PhD to Industry: 4 Books to Aid Your Transition
• How to Write a Dissertation
• Websites to Read Books for Free
• Research and Dissertation Proposals
• Research Methodology Books

Comparision

• Independent vs. Dependent Variable
• Research Article and Research Paper
• Proposition and Hypothesis
• Principal Component Analysis and Partial Least Squares
• Academic Research vs Industry Research
• Clinical Research vs Lab Research
• Research Lab and Hospital Lab
• Thesis Statement and Research Question
• Quantitative Researchers vs. Quantitative Traders
• Premise, Hypothesis and Supposition
• Survey Vs Experiment
• Hypothesis and Theory
• APA vs. MLA
• Ghost Authorship vs. Gift Authorship
• Research Methods
• Quantitative Research
• Qualitative Research
• Case Study Research
• Survey Research
• Conclusive Research
• Descriptive Research
• Cross-Sectional Research
• Theoretical Framework
• Conceptual Framework
• Triangulation
• Grounded Theory
• Quasi-Experimental Design
• Mixed Method
• Correlational Research
• Randomized Controlled Trial
• Stratified Sampling
• Ethnography
• Ghost Authorship
• Secondary Data Collection
• Primary Data Collection
• Ex-Post-Facto
•   Dissertation Topic
• Thesis Statement
• Research Proposal
• Research Questions
• Research Problem
• Research Gap
• Types of Research Gaps
• Operationalization of Variables
• Literature Review
• Research Hypothesis
• Questionnaire
• Reliability
• Measurement of Scale
• Sampling Techniques
• Acknowledgements
• PLS-SEM model
• Principal Components Analysis
• Multivariate Analysis
• Friedman Test
• Chi-Square Test (Χ²)
• Effect Size
• Directional vs. Non-Directional Hypothesis

Related Posts

Exploring qualitative researcher skills: what they are and how to develop them, difference between quota sampling and stratified sampling, how effective laboratory design impacts health, safety, and productivity, why is laboratory safety important in research, what is purposive sampling | examples, quota sampling in research, top ai tools for literature review , top 10 high impact factor journals, significance of inclusion and diversity in research excellence, research design | importance, types of research design examples.

Comments are closed.

• Case studies
• Expert advice

User research for beginners: best courses and books

User research is part and parcel of a successful design. Understand people who will use your design, apply this knowledge while creating personas and customer journey maps, put them into use, and you will nail it.

Like any other discipline, user research requires specific knowledge and skills. There is a flood of learning materials on UX both online and offline. But the sources are surprisingly scarce when it comes to user research.

I'm telling you this from my personal experience. When I was transitioning from cultural anthropology into UX, I spent much time figuring out how to apply my knowledge to a new setting.

At that time, I set out to create a list of useful learning assets for those who are new to user research.

Talking to UXPressia users from different countries, I found out that they were looking for something like my list. That’s why I decided to write a post to share with you the useful learning resources on user research for beginners I collected.

I’m going to introduce you to the courses, training, and books created by practitioners for practitioners, and even more. Read on the post to find learning sources that will work best for you.

Best online user research courses for novices

Some of the courses found in this section are free, some are paid. They vary in duration, content, and delivery. Dive in and see which one better suits your needs.

User Experience (UX): The Ultimate Guide to Usability and UX

I put this course first deliberately. It provides a great introduction to user experience and its scope is much wider than just user research. The course is a great starting point even for those who have some UX knowledge. This course will help you put user research in context, making it truly worth your time.

The course contains numerous excellent examples. In a nutshell, it tells a story that develops gradually from lesson to lesson and so does the learner’s understanding of the subject matter.

The course consists of short, easily digestible videos that give an overview of the most common research methods. It also guides you to additional resources to deepen your knowledge.

• In-depth course
• Explains the business value of UX
• Lots of examples
• Practical exercises
• Certificate of completion
• Broad in scope: not all topics cover user research

 User Research – Methods and Best Practices

User Research – Methods and Best Practices  is a part of the six-course series User Researcher Learning Path by Interaction Design Foundation. Whether you’re trying to break into user research and change your career or find some useful research techniques to help you in your current role, this course got you covered.

Combining video lectures with text-based learning materials, the course gives a detailed overview of qualitative research methods.

Don’t be surprised that quantitative research methods are not covered. Qualitative UX research is usually what a professional researcher does at the beginning of a new project. Applying these methods puts you in direct contact with the user. It also allows you to immerse yourself into the context to see the goals, motivations, and tasks from the user’s perspective.

Pay special attention to the lecture on ROI of user research — it may help you convince your boss to invest in UX research.

Tip:  if you have zero experience with UX, check out User Experience: The Beginner’s Guide and Design Thinking: The Beginner’s Guide in the same course series.

• A great mix of educational materials
• Tests with open-ended questions evaluated by the instructor
• Discussion forums
• Requires a basic understanding of UX
• Time-consuming

User Experience: Research & Prototyping

User Experience: Research & Prototyping is a part of the Interaction Design Specialization that covers a broad range of UX topics. Week one of the course is dedicated to qualitative methods and is particularly useful in terms of user research.

The content is video-based, easy to access at any time. One of the perks of this course is that course participants are required to conduct research as a practical exercise. The results of each study are peer-reviewed by other people taking the course. So you get immediate feedback on your work and this helps you learn quickly.

• Practical peer-reviewed assignment
• Evaluated quiz
• Free in the audit mode
• Certificate of completion (only in the full version)
• Partially devoted to research
• Full version is paid

Beyond Usability: Learn the User Research Toolkit

Beyond Usability: Learn the User Research Toolkit presents a high-level overview of both qualitative and quantitative user research methods. It will take you less than an hour to watch the course lectures.

There’s a very brief introduction to user research techniques. But the suggestions for applying different methods to specific problem areas provided at the end of the course are certainly valuable.

Another perk is that the course is divided into bite-sized videos. The course is free.

• Introduction to qualitative and a glimpse of quantitative methods
• Only takes 1 hour
• High-level overview
• Theory-based
• No practical exercises

Books on User Research for Beginners

Reading books on user research may take more time than watching video lectures. But systematic learning is a long-term investment in your project and your career in UX. Here are the best user research books for beginners that I read.

The User Experience Team of One: A Research and Design Survival Guide

The book by Leah Buley is not limited to user research, it’s much broader than that. If you’re the only person in your company who cares about UX, it's a must-read for you.

Leah Buley provided an accurate summary of each chapter. If you don’t have time to read the whole thing, examine the summaries to choose the chapters to read in full.

As for user research beginners, I find two book chapters particularly relevant:

• Chapter 3 , “Building Support for Your Work” gives you some tips and tricks for overcoming common objections to conducting user research.
• The goal of Chapter 6 , “Research Methods” is not to give you a profound understanding of user research methods. Its goal is to give you a set of efficient techniques that will work for almost any project. The author provides an estimated timeline for each method and gives tips on when to use them.
• A comprehensive introduction to UX
• Helpful summaries
• Tips on getting support for UX initiatives and building a career
• Reads easily
• Only research basics are covered

Just Enough Research

In the book Just Enough Research , Erika Hall explains what design research is and what it is not. She demonstrates how to introduce different types of research to your organization when resources are scarce and how to promote the research agenda.

This book is very practical and explains complex concepts in simple language understood by user research beginners. It's quite short and meant to be read in full. While reading, I recommend that you pay special attention to three chapters:

• In Chapter 3 , “The Process”, you will read how to establish a systematic approach to research, no matter the scale of your research initiative. The algorithm described there will help you with all future research endeavors.
• In Chapter 4 , “Organizational research”, the author focuses on the importance of understanding the culture and inner dynamics of the organization you work for or collaborate with as an external consultant for UX activities.
• In Chapter 5 , “User Research”, Erica Hall tells the reader to go beyond usability testing. She advises the reader to leverage elements of ethnography to develop empathy with users. What for? With this method, you will deeply learn the behavior of the people you’re designing for and understand why they act the way they do. If you’re completely new to user research, understanding the users’ context is the place to start.
• Introduction to qualitative and quantitative methods
• Tips on promoting research in your company
• No summaries
• Chapters make better sense when reading in the original order

Observing the User Experience: A Practitioner's Guide to User Research

Observing the User Experience is a user research classic that is not meant to be read in one sitting. Mike Kuniavsky, Elizabeth Goodman, and Andrea Moed encourage the reader to explore the chapters on an as-needed basis.

The book covers in detail a wide range of user research techniques, qualitative and quantitative. The authors provide examples of applying each technique from their own work experience.

This book is written for more advanced users than the first two. It’s on my list because during the discussion of research techniques this book spells out how to analyze research results and present findings to the team.

At the end of the day, the success of your research is not only about doing it right and asking the right questions. It’s also about being able to communicate findings and convince stakeholders.

• In-depth introduction to qualitative and quantitative methods
• Real-life examples from the industry
• Chapters can be read individually in any order
• Intended for a more advanced audience

Finally, I would like to share with you some other sources where you’ll find user research materials.

Additional sources on user research for beginners

Reading blogs may be the easiest way to learn a thing or two about user research without investing too much time. They are also a place to read about the latest trends in the field.

Norman Nielsen Group

Norman Nielsen Group is an industry leader and one of the most authoritative sources on user research and all things UX. Read this article first — it explains how to choose the right research method.

UX Collective

The User Research and User Testing section of the UX Collective’s blog contains different types of articles on the subject matter that are written by practitioners from all over the world.

Usabilityworks

Usabilityworks  is a website created by a renowned user researcher Dana Chisnell. In the blog, she writes about research and data analysis techniques. There is also a small library of public talks the author held over the years.

Ethnography Matters

If you want to learn more about ethnography and how it’s applied in a broader context, try Ethnography Matters .

Last but not least comes the article on secondary research methods which is useful for the cases when direct interaction with users is not available. Though the techniques mentioned there are complementary and should normally go along with actual user research, if you’re having trouble advocating for research in your company, this is a place to start.

Take a step into the unknown

I’m a firm believer that user research doesn’t have to be intimidating. Even ad hoc, beginner-level research activities prove to be effective compared to not doing any research at all. Try out learning materials for user research for beginners from the list, take a leap of faith and throw yourself into the unknown world of user research. I promise it will be fun.

Rate this post

Top 7 user research books for beginners

.css-1nrevy2{position:relative;display:inline-block;} Think Like a UX Researcher: How to Observe Users, Influence Design, and Shape Business Strategy by David Travis & Philip Hodgson

After this list was first published,  Stephanie Pratt , senior user experience researcher at  GoCanvas  and  David Hamill , independent UX consultant highlighted that a super important title was missed entirely -  Think Like a UX Researcher . It was first released in January 2019 and is already making its way to the top of user researcher’s lists. According to the reviews, nothing like this book currently exists and on top of its freshness, it’s helping the readers excel at their jobs and be better user researchers. The structure of the book means that it is easy to read in different sittings or you can consume it all at once.

David Hamill , independent UX consultant says:

The thing that sets it apart from other books on UX research is that it guides the reader in the mindset a good UX researcher has and how it applies to user centred design.

User Friendly: How the Hidden Rules of Design Are Changing the Way We Live, Work, and Play by Cliff Kuang and Robert Fabricant

There is a definite hype around this title - author Cliff Kuang is a UX designer and renowned journalist making his voice both distinct and powerful.  User Friendly  takes the reader through the principles governing how design shapes our current behavior. It is told through the fascinating historical lens of what has gone before and how it has changed the design and human landscape forever.

Joe Gebbia , co-founder of Airbnb says:

Rarely do I dog-ear pages as much as I did with this book. Engrossing and rich with rarely-told stories and interviews,  User Friendly  gives critical insights to make us better, smarter consumers of design.

Interviewing Users: How to Uncover Compelling Insights by Steve Portigal

Researchers must love it when they pick this book up and the title reads -  how to uncover compelling insights , indicating that the pages within will arm you with the tools you need to discover nuggets of greatness in your next interview. While interviewing is just a small part of the user research landscape, from all accounts, it is an incredibly complicated part. This book isn’t just for readers who are new to user research, the widely held opinion is that all researchers should constantly be revisiting the pages of  Interviewing Users .

Elizabeth Churchill , director of user experience at Google says:

Steve Portigal’s book is packed with useful tips, illustrative examples, cautionary tales, and how-to advice for planning and conducting interviews, as well as analyzing and presenting data gathered.

Don’t Make Me Think, Revisited by Steve Krug

There’s got to be a reason that  Don’t Make Me Think  is constantly listed as Amazon’s Best Seller in User Experience. This book went from being purely for web designers and developers in the early 2000s to being a staple for anyone with an interest in the relationship between usability and design. If you have anything to do with a website, this is a must-read.

Jeffrey Zeldman , author of  Designing with Web Standards  says:

After reading it over a couple of hours and putting its ideas to work for the past five years, I can say it has done more to improve my abilities as a Web designer than any other book.

Lean UX by Jeff Gothelf and Josh Seiden

This title is a fan favorite and provides an introduction to being lean and agile while simultaneously pulling it into the realm of UX. Various reviewers have indicated that while it doesn’t function as the definitive manual of how to implement Lean UX at scale, it is a foundational piece that creates a base understanding.

Andrew Binstock , a former editor at  Dr. Dobb’s Journal  says:

This short book is an excellent guide to the paradigm of UX design and implementation, presented here in an agile context that enables developers to integrate this approach into their workflow quickly and effectively.

Just Enough Research by Erika Hall

Just Enough Research  is thought of as an ultra-valuable design research primer which includes user research, stakeholder research, competitive analysis etc. The sentiment is that it is jam-packed with practical tips to ensure you understand your customer and optimize your approach based on the things you discover.

Liz Danzico , VP of design at NPR says:

Chances are good that your business is making inaccurate assumptions about your customers’ behavior. Enough! Erika’s book makes research accessible and helps you create an informed plan to better understand—and design for—your customers.

Quantifying the User Experience: Practical Statistics for User Research by James R. Lewis and Jeff Sauro

This book is not we would call a quick read but it is purportedly one of the most useful resources for quant UX researchers!  Quantifying the User Experience  acts as a practical guide on how to use statistics to solve common quantitative problems that arise in user research. It offers functional applications and considered discussions. Philip Kortum, an associate psychology professor at Rice University:

Serious practitioners of usability science will find this book a valuable addition to the highly qualitative texts that are currently available.

Bonus: The UX Research Book by Apple & Banana

While still untitled and yet to be released, we're super excited about the upcoming book to be published by the folks at Apple & Banana . The book is still a work in progress, but aims to demystify how UX research actually helps build products that customers love and practically tackles the fundamental elements of psychological, technology, and design that UX researchers employ every day at work.

It's already received early praise from UX professionals like Chris Nodder , who says:

I think there's a need for this book. The scope and contents are really interesting...this has the potential to be a useful entry-level handbook [for UX researchers].

Keep reading

.css-je19u9{-webkit-align-items:flex-end;-webkit-box-align:flex-end;-ms-flex-align:flex-end;align-items:flex-end;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:wrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:wrap;-ms-flex-wrap:wrap;flex-wrap:wrap;-webkit-box-pack:center;-ms-flex-pack:center;-webkit-justify-content:center;justify-content:center;row-gap:0;text-align:center;max-width:671px;}@media (max-width: 1079px){.css-je19u9{max-width:400px;}.css-je19u9>span{white-space:pre;}}@media (max-width: 799px){.css-je19u9{max-width:400px;}.css-je19u9>span{white-space:pre;}} Decide what to .css-1kiodld{max-height:56px;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;}@media (max-width: 1079px){.css-1kiodld{display:none;}} build next

Decide what to build next.

Users report unexpectedly high data usage, especially during streaming sessions.

Users find it hard to navigate from the home page to relevant playlists in the app.

It would be great to have a sleep timer feature, especially for bedtime listening.

I need better filters to find the songs or artists I’m looking for.

Log in or sign up

Get started for free

Top 4 Clinical Research Books You Need To Read

With scientific discoveries and technological advancements comes knowledge. This knowledge defines the scope and practices of the different fields of professions that they apply to. Due to the continuous nature of medical research, the medical sciences are not also behind on scientific discoveries. More often than not, there is a new field knowledge that changes the way people do their job. The change could be something in something routine as checking the blood pressure of a patient or measuring the body temperature. A smart clinical research scientist knows that they have to ensure that they stay up to date with scientific discoveries to help patients as well as themselves.

If you have been offered a clinical research job or you are interested in one, one thing you should know for sure is that to be successful in this field, you need to know your stuff. It is true what they say, to remain relevant in any field is to remain knowledgeable.

To help your cause, we have made a list of 6 books that will help you succeed in the clinical research field.

Fundamentals of Clinical Trials , by Lawrence M. Friedman, Curt D. Furberg, David DeMets. This book looks into key issues like assessment, reporting of results, randomization, interpretation etc. This book introduces clinical trials to you beautifully, with real life examples used to explain key features of clinical trial.

Designing Clinical Research , by Dr. Stephen B Hulley, MD, MPH, Steven R Cummings, MD, Warren S Browner, MD. This book is an important book for doctors, pharmacists, nurses and all medical professionals involved in medical research. It explains useful methods for designing, funding and implementing clinical research.

Publishing and Presenting Clinical Research, Third Edition , by Warren S. Browner MD. This book contains the essentials of clinical trials and publication. This book will come in handy for those who wants to know more about organizing, delivering, and publishing the results of their research in the best way possible.

Practical Guide to Clinical Data Management, Third Edition , by Susanne Prokscha. One issue that always pops up in clinical research is how to manage the large volumes of ever increasing data. If you are already working in the field, you could no doubt relate. This is a task that can be rightfully described as “extremely time consuming”. This book gives powerful insights on current industry tactics on the use of Electronic Data Capture (EDC) for clinical research. This book will help you solve the age-long problem of managing voluminous clinical research data.

Honorable mentions

Basic Principles of Clinical Research and Methodology by S. K. Gupta

A Clinical Trial Manual from the Duke Clinical Research Institute . Kate Davis, Margaret Liu.

Handbook for Good Clinical Research Practice . WHO.

We have introduced many good reads for those who like to stay informed. Whether you are someone looking to get started in the field or someone who is looking for a refresher, these are the perfect places to start. If you need motivation to get reading, here are some clinical research positions to remind you of what is possible when you apply yourself.

If you prefer online classes with professional guidance, check out CCRPS’ certification courses . They offer one of the only major ACCRE accredited courses in the US. The courses are created by real, senior professionals who skip the nonsense and get right into what you need to succeed in the field.

Take courses from CCRPS and learn more on how to become a clinical research professional.

Discover more from Clinical Research Training | Certified Clinical Research Professionals Course

What You Need to Know About Being a CTA (Clinical Trial/Research Assistant)

How does clinical research billing work.

• Online Degree Explore Bachelor’s & Master’s degrees
• MasterTrack™ Earn credit towards a Master’s degree
• University Certificates Advance your career with graduate-level learning
• Top Courses
• Join for Free

12 Data Analytics Books for Beginners: A 2024 Reading List

Immerse yourself in the language, ideas, and trends of data with this 2024 data analyst reading list.

We are surrounded by data, and the amount of new data available to us is growing every day. So is the demand for skilled data professionals. When you’re just taking your first steps toward a career as a data analyst , it’s key to immerse yourself in the language, ideas, and trends of data. Books are one way to do that.

We’ve curated a list of data analysis books appropriate for beginners on a range of topics, from general overviews to topical selections on statistical programming languages, big data, and artificial intelligence. Add these books to your reading list to help you:

Assess whether a data analyst career would be a good fit for you

Familiarize yourself with the vocabulary and concepts of data analytics

Get job advice and prepare talking points for interviews

Stay atop the latest data trends

Learn new data analyst skills to launch or advance your career

Bookmark this page now so you can revisit it during your data analytics journey.

Books about data analytics for beginners

You’ll find no shortage of excellent books on data analytics out there, but we’ve decided to focus on those that are most relevant to beginners. Many of these titles offer an introduction or overview of a topic rather than a technical deep dive. Some of the more skills-based books include exercises to get you practicing real-world data skills.

1. Data Analytics Made Accessible by Dr. Anil Maheshwari

Best data analytics overview

The chapters in this book are organized much like an introductory college course— in fact, many universities have adopted it as their textbook. It’s an excellent introduction if you’re just getting started in data analytics or wondering what data analytics is all about . Besides high-level overviews of key data concepts, the book also includes: 

Real-world examples of data analysis in practice 

Case study exercises that could lead to potential portfolio pieces 

Review questions to help you check your comprehension 

R and Python data mining tutorials for complete beginners

While the book was originally published in 2014, it has been updated several times since (including in 2022) to cover increasingly important topics like data privacy, big data, artificial intelligence, and data science career advice.

2. Numsense! Data Science for the Layman: No Math Added by Annalyn Ng and Kenneth Soo

Best data science overview

Reading this book provides a gentle immersion into the world of data science—perfect for someone coming from a non-technical background. The authors walk you through algorithms using clear language and visual explanations, so you don’t get bogged down in complex math.

While this book is geared toward beginners, it also offers value to practicing data scientists. Use it as a refresher on communicating what you’re working on to business partners.

3. Python for Everybody: Exploring Data in Python 3 by Dr. Charles Russell Severance

Best book to learn Python

If you’ve never written a line of code before (or still consider yourself a beginner), this book will have you write your first program in minutes. Dr. Charles Severance of the University of Michigan walks readers through the process of learning to “speak” to a database through Python.

Read more: How Long Does it Take to Learn Python? (+ Tips for Learning) 

It’s a useful resource on its own and even more valuable when used alongside Dr. Severance's popular course, Python for Everybody (available on Coursera). 

TIP: At the time of this writing, you can download a free electronic version of Python for Everybody at py4e.com .

4. SQL QuickStart Guide: The Simplified Beginner's Guide to Managing, Analyzing, and Manipulating Data With SQL by Walter Shields

Best introduction to SQL

This is so much more than a book. When you buy this book on Structured Query Language (SQL), you get access to a sample database and SQL browser app, so you can immediately put what you’re learning into action. You’ll also get lifetime access to a host of digital tools—workbooks and reference guides among them—to complement your learning.

This book covers topics like:

Database structures

How to use SQL to communicate with relational databases

Key SQL queries to complete common data analysis tasks

Advice on how to pitch your new SQL skills to potential employers

Read more: 5 SQL Certifications for Your Data Career

5. Big Data: A Revolution That Will Transform How We Live, Work, and Think by Kenneth Cukier and Viktor Mayer-Schönberger

Best big data book

Whether or not you’re involved in the world of data analytics, you’ve probably heard the term “ big data ” at some point. This book by two experts in the field goes beyond the buzzword to illuminate just how big data is already changing our world, for better and sometimes worse.

This isn’t a technical text to teach you big data algorithms. It’s more of a primer in what big data is, what it can do, and how it might impact the future.

Read more: What Is Big Data? A Layperson's Guide

6. Data Science for Business: What You Need to Know about Data Mining and Data-Analytic Thinking by Foster Provost and Tom Fawcett

Best business analytics book

This book digs deep into the importance of data for business decision making. If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a business analyst , consider this an introduction to how data science and business work together and what goes into data-driven decision making. 

The authors do a good job of outlining data science techniques and principles as they relate to business without getting caught up in the technical details of algorithms.

Honorable mention: Too Big to Ignore: The Business Case for Big Data by Phil Simon

7. Artificial Intelligence: A Guide for Thinking Humans by Melanie Mitchell

Best artificial intelligence book

By reading this book, you can start to separate the hype surrounding the idea of artificial intelligence (AI) from reality. Author Melanie Mitchell, a computer scientist, explores the history of AI and the people behind it to help readers better understand complex concepts like neural networks, natural language processing, and computer vision models.

While data analysts don’t necessarily need a deep understanding of AI, it can be helpful to understand these technologies and their impact on the world of data analytics. Mitchell approaches these topics in a way that’s clear and engaging.

Read more: What Is an AI Engineer? (And How to Become One)

8. Storytelling with Data: A Data Visualization Guide for Business Professionals by Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic 

Best data visualization book

In data analysis, our data is often only as good as the stories we tell with it. This book walks you through the fundamentals of communicating with data through storytelling and visualization. It combines theory with real-world examples to help you:

Recognize context

Choose the right visualization for the right situation

Eliminate clutter and highlight the most important parts of the data

Think like a visual designer

Build presentations using multiple visuals to tell a compelling story

Reading this book won’t teach you to create masterful visualizations using R or Tableau, but its insights can equip you to use those tools more effectively when you do learn them. 

9. The Hundred-Page Machine Learning Book by Andriy Burkov

Best machine learning book

This title delivers on its promise: an overview of machine learning in a little bit more than 100 pages (140 to be exact). It’s short enough to read in a single sitting. Andriy Burkov offers a solid introduction to the field, even if you have no statistical or programming experience. 

This compact read covers an immense amount of information. Topics include supervised and unsupervised learning, neural networks, cluster analysis, and hyperparameter tuning. If you’re not familiar with those terms, don’t worry. You will be after reading this one.  You can always turn to the companion wiki for recommendations on further reading and resources.

10. Business unIntelligence: Insight and Innovation beyond Analytics and Big Data by Dr. Barry Devlin

Best business intelligence book

This book explores how the trinity of people, processes, and information come together to drive business success in the modern world. This is not a book about traditional business intelligence (BI) concepts. Instead, it outlines how BI can fall short and presents new models and frameworks to improve the practice.

If you’re looking for an overview of the past, present, and future of BI, give this book a try. Topics discussed include:

The birth of the biz-tech ecosystem

Practical tips for using big data

Data-based, intuitive, and collaborative decision making (and why companies need all three)

11. Naked Statistics: Stripping the Dread from the Data by Charles Wheelan

Best statistics book

If you need a refresher of what you learned in college statistics, pick up this book. If you struggle with mathematical concepts presented as a series of numbers and symbols stripped of context, pick up this book. 

Charles Wheelan dives into key concepts in statistical analysis—correlation, regression, and inference—in a way that’s both enlightening and entertaining. Wheelan makes a good (and humorous) case for why everyone should understand statistics in our modern world, not just data professionals. 

You may not walk away knowing with mastery of statistics. But this book can help you understand the underlying concepts and why they matter, making it an excellent companion to more technical statistical coursework. 

12. Weapons of Math Destruction: How Big Data Increases Inequality and Threatens Democracy by Cathy O'Neil

Best book on data bias

Big data can be a powerful tool, and this book serves as a warning and reminder that we need to use it responsibly. Data scientist and mathematician Cathy O'Neil explores the consequences of machines making decisions about our lives, and how the algorithms driving those decisions often reinforce discrimination. 

Even if you don’t agree with the author on every point, you might walk away with a better understanding of the darker side of data. These relevant and urgent insights are particularly important for those just getting started in the world of data—those whose responsibility it will be to ensure that the data of the future is used for the benefit of all, not just the privileged. 

Honorable mention: Algorithms of Oppression: How Search Engines Reinforce Racism by Safiya Umoja Noble

Get started in data analytics

If you’re interested in data analysis and ready to take the next step toward a career in the field, get started for free with one of the many Professional Certificates available on Coursera.

Learn what a data analyst does and get an introduction to R programming with the Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate . Explore various roles in the world of data while learning Python with the IBM Data Analyst Professional Certificate . Or, learn the entire end-to-end data analyst workflow with the IBM Data Analyst with Excel and R Professional Certificate .

Whatever your skill level, Coursera has something for you.

Keep reading

Coursera staff.

Editorial Team

Coursera’s editorial team is comprised of highly experienced professional editors, writers, and fact...

This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.