Research is not all white lab coats and test tubes. Simply put, research is a systematic way to ask and answer your questions by looking for patterns in new or existing data. Typical steps are clockwise are in Figure 1 below.

Begin by identifying your problem clearly and concisely. A great way to do that is using the acronym PICO. (Learn how to use PICO by clicking here.)

In the Figure 1 below, I’ve included the step of IRB review. Remember that an IRB (institutional review board/ AKA human subjects review board) must review all research procedures for your compliance with federal ethical and legal rules before you begin any data collection or subject contact.

Search discoveringyourinnerscientist.com for what I’ve already written on some of these steps, and watch for more in upcoming posts.

Figure 1. Research Process Summary