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Abstract

In a broad sense the word research can be used to mean finding out about unfamiliar matters, generally by retrieving bits of information here and there. In fact, research is the systematic process of collecting and analysing data in order to increase the knowledge available to those working in a specific field of interest. The whole process presents seven distinct characteristics:

  1. 1.

    Question or problem

  2. 2.

    Aim

  3. 3.

    Specific plan or procedure

  4. 4.

    Division of the main problem into subproblems

  5. 5.

    Acceptance of critical assumptions

  6. 6.

    Collection and interpretation of data

  7. 7.

    Cyclical nature

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Martins, S., Zin, A., Zin, W. (2004). Planning, designing and writing up scientific research. In: Gullo, A. (eds) Anaesthesia, Pain, Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine — A.P.I.C.E.. Springer, Milano. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-88-470-2189-1_39

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