In this type of research, you will find information that spells out the process or action. Determine what it is and what steps are required, the order the steps should follow, how to do the steps, what outcome the process or action should produce and what safety precautions are needed. If possible, observe the process in action or perform it yourself. Carefully record names, materials, tools, safety and legal issues.
Comparing and contrasting research is a logical process that helps you understand your subjects more fully and explain them more clearly. Begin this research by first determining the basis of your comparison. Decide how the subjects are related. Then decide whether to compare, to contrast or both. When comparing subjects, find out how they are similar. When contrasting them, establish how they are different. When comparing and contrasting subjects, find out how they are both similar and different.
When using this type of research, also caused cause-and-effect research, you develop a thesis through cause-and-effect reasoning. You analyze and explain the cause and/or effect of something. Linking cause to effect, or vice versa, requires clear, logical thinking supported by strong evidence. To practice this kind of reasoning first, research the topic for evidence connecting a specific cause and/or effect to a specific phenomenon. Second, draft a working thesis stating the connection and, third, explain the connection in a language that is understandable.
The result of this type of research is to propose a prescription for change. As such, the results of your research should challenge the reader to care about a problem, accept a solution and act upon it. In order to accomplish this, research must be thorough. Define the problem, determining what exactly it is and its parts and components. Determine why the problem should be fixed, who is affected and the immediate, long-term and potential effects. Explore the root causes and contributing factors.