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When you're about to start a research, one of the first things you need to decide is what kind of research method you'll use. This decision shapes your entire project—from your topic to how you collect data and present your results.

If you're preparing to join through the programs like Youth Academic Forum by Youth Break the Boundaries (YBB), understanding these research types will give you a strong foundation. 

Here’s a guide that will help you choose the best path.

Descriptive Research: Understanding the “What”

It’s used when you want to describe characteristics, behaviors, or patterns. You won’t be testing theories or relationships, but rather observing and presenting facts.

Surveys, case studies, and observational methods are often used here. For example, if you’re researching student study habits, you might use a questionnaire to gather data.

Descriptive research is non-invasive and suitable for beginners. It helps you build strong data presentation skills.

Exploratory Research: Digging into the Unknown

Exploratory research is used when you’re tackling a new problem that hasn’t been studied much before.

This method is flexible. You won’t always start with a clear hypothesis, but you’ll ask questions, collect data, and start identifying trends or patterns.

Let’s say you want to explore how Gen Z feels about AI in education. You might use interviews or open-ended surveys to gather initial insights.

This research is great when you're unsure where to begin. It allows your topic to evolve as you learn more.

Analytical Research: Investigating the “Why”

Analytical research is used when you’re looking to understand why something happens.

This method goes deeper. You’ll be comparing variables, identifying patterns, and interpreting data to explain cause-and-effect relationships.

This method is more advanced and often uses statistics. It’s ideal if you're aiming to publish your work or present it in academic settings like the Youth Academic Forum.

Experimental Research: Testing the “How”

Experimental research involves manipulating variables to test a hypothesis.

It’s often used in natural sciences and social sciences. You’ll create controlled environments and measure how changes affect outcomes.

This method requires planning, resources, and time. But it gives strong, reliable results—making it ideal for students looking to make a real impact.

Which Research Method Is Best?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best research method depends on your goals, resources, and timeline.

• Use descriptive research if you want to observe and report facts.
• Try exploratory research if your topic is new or unclear.
• Go with analytical research if you're looking to explain causes or relationships.
• Choose experimental research if you want to test a hypothesis in a controlled setting.

Your topic and purpose will guide you. If you're submitting a scientific proposal, experimental or analytical might be best. If your goal is to raise awareness, descriptive or exploratory works well.

Conclusion

Choosing your research method is the first big step in your academic journey.

Each method has its strengths. What matters most is that your method fits your question, your data, and your message.

If you're aiming to join the Youth Academic Forum or similar programs, take time to reflect on your topic and the kind of impact you want to create. The better your method fits your purpose, the stronger your research will be.

So—what’s your research goal? Start there, and the right method will follow.