Includes bibliographical references.

Introduction -- Part I: Research theory and practice. Research basics -- Research theory -- Structuring the research project -- Research ethics -- Finding and reviewing the literature -- Part II: The main research methods. The nature of data -- Collecting and analysing secondary data : modern, historical and archival -- Collecting primary data -- Quantitative data analysis -- Qualitative data analysis -- Mixed methods and interdisciplinary research -- Writing the proposal and planning the research project ; Writing up the research -- Glossary.

Research Methods: The Basics is an accessible, user-friendly introduction to the different aspects of research theory, methods and practice. This third edition provides an expanded and fully updated resource suitable for students and practitioners in a wide range of disciplines including the natural sciences, social sciences and humanities. It is structured in two parts--the first covers the nature of knowledge and the reasons for doing research, the second explains the specific methods used to conduct an effective research project and how to propose, plan, carry out and write up a research project.