Doing a research project or dissertation can be daunting. This practical book will help you dive straight in, driving each step of the process with confidence. Packed with features to support your learning, this guidebook gives you invaluable advice at each stage, from picking a topic, designing your study and navigating ethics to collecting and analysing data then sharing your findings. This fifth edition Empowers you to be critical and self-reflective when consuming and doing research, with 19 critical thinking challenges. Equips you with the skills to make good decisions, prepare effectively, and take charge of your own project. Draws on case studies of real-world research to inspire your creativity and curiosity. This popular, down-to-earth guide is a must-have for undergraduate and postgraduate students embarking on research projects across the social sciences.