Types of Research Designs Overview

This document is a guide that outlines various types of research designs, categorizing them from observational to experimental. It begins by explaining observational studies, which capture current activities or assess relationships between variables. The document lists several specific study types, including case studies, cross-sectional studies, and prepost studies, detailing their unique characteristics. For instance, case studies describe specific groups, while cross-sectional studies assess the prevalence of outcomes at a specific time. The guide continues with more complex designs such as cohort studies and randomized-controlled trials, which evaluate causal impacts and track outcomes over time. Each design is presented in a logical order, reflecting the spectrum from less to more experimental approaches. The document serves as a comprehensive resource for understanding the different methodologies used in research.