What is a relevant research problem? How can I improve concepts and measurements? Which and how many variables and cases should I select? How do I evaluate rival explanations and which theoretical conclusions can I draw? This book offers practical guidelines on these core issues of design for qualitative and quantitative research in political science. It puts special emphasis on the trade-offs involved in design decisions and on illustrations from actual research.

Research designs can be distinguished along various dimensions, but all face the same set of core issues. What is a relevant research problem? How can the concepts and measurements be improved? Which and how many variables and cases should be selected? What theoretical conclusions can be drawn from the research? Which evidence would lead to a rejection and reformulation of the initial theory?
This volume was written to help advanced students of political science and neighbouring fields to think about these issues and develop practical solutions for their own research. The distinction between qualitative and quantitative research can often be inadequate. Some solutions to research design problems are common to both types of research; others cross-cut the traditional qualitative-quantitative divide. Including a chapter on choosing a research question, this book provides practical guidelines for both qualitative and quantitative designs, discussing the typical trade-offs involved in choosing them, and is rich in examples from real research.