This document discusses research methods and preparing for research. It begins by explaining that research starts with human curiosity about problems in the world. There are scientific and non-scientific approaches to answering problems, with scientific approaches using logic and evidence. Research purposes can be theoretical to provide a basis for solving life problems, or practical to directly solve problems. Preparing for research involves identifying a problem, conceptualizing variables, formulating hypotheses, and developing research designs and instruments. Hypotheses shape the research by guiding identification of samples, data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Hypotheses should relate variables and be testable. The process of developing hypotheses can involve deduction from general assumptions to specifics, or induction from specific observations to generalizations.