
Chapter Nine has been exclusively devoted to several parametric tests of hypotheses, followed by Chapter Ten concerning Chi-square test. Sampling fundamentals, along with the theory of estimation, constitutes the subject-matter of Chapter Eight. Chapter Seven deals with processing and analysis of data. It also provides in its appendices guidelines for successful interviewing as well as for constructing questionnaire/schedules. Chapter Six presents a comparative study of the different methods of data collection. Different measurement and scaling techniques, along with multidimensional scaling, have been lucidly described in Chapter Five. Chapter Four presents the details of several sampling designs. Chapter Three dwells on various research designs, highlighting their main characteristics. Chapter Two explains the technique of defining a research problem. Chapter One is an introduction, presenting an overview of the research methodology. Regarding the organization, the book consists of fourteen chapters, well arranged in a coherent manner. It is hoped that the humble effort made in the form of this book will assist in the accomplishment of exploratory as well as result-oriented research studies. Keeping all this in view, the present book has been written with two clear objectives, viz., (i) to enable researchers, irrespective of their discipline, in developing the most appropriate methodology for their research studies and (ii) to make them familiar with the art of using different research- methods and techniques. The methodology may differ from problem to problem, yet the basic approach towards research remains the same. The need, therefore, is for those concerned with research to pay due attention to designing and adhering to the appropriate methodology throughout for improving the quality of research. It may be noted, in the context of planning and development, that the significance of research lies in its quality and not in quantity. Thus a great deal of research tends to be futile. The result is that much of research, particularly in social sciences, contains endless word-spinning and too many quotations. But in most cases very little attention is paid to an important dimension relaing to research, namely, that of research methodology. Several research studies are undertaken and accomplished year after year. Preface to the First Edition ix Preface to the First Edition Quite frequently these days people talk of research, both in academic institutions and outside. I firmly believe that there is always scope for improvement and accordingly I shall look forward to received suggestions, (which shall be thankfully acknowledged) for further enriching the quality of the text. I am grateful to all those who have helped me directly and/or indirectly in preparing this revised edition.

The other highlights of this revised edition are (i) the subject contents has been developed, refined and restructured at several points, (ii) several new problems have also been added at the end of various chapters for the benefit of students, and (iii) every page of the book has been read very carefully so as to improve its quality. In this edition a new chapter on The Computer: Its role in Research have been added in view of the fact that electronic computers by now, for students of economics, management and other social sciences, constitute an indispensable part of research equipment.

The feedback received from different sources has been incorporated. All possible efforts have been made to enhance further the usefulness of the book. I am presenting this second edition, thoroughly revised and enlarged, to my readers in all humbleness.

Preface to the Second Edition vii Preface to the Second Edition I feel encouraged by the widespread response from teachers and students alike to the first edition. In loving memory of my revered father (The fountain of inspiration) 4. All inquiries should be emailed to PUBLISHING FOR ONE WORLD NEWAGE INTERNATIONAL(P) LIMITED, PUBLISHERS 4835/24,Ansari Road, Daryaganj, New Delhi - 110002 VisitusatISBN (13) : 978-8-1 3. No part of this ebook may be reproduced in any form, by photostat, microfilm, xerography, or any other means, or incorporated into any information retrieval system, electronic or mechanical, without the written permission of the publisher. Copyright 2004, 1990, 1985, NewAge International (P) Ltd., Publishers Published by NewAge International (P) Ltd., Publishers All rights reserved.
