Research can be broadly classified into the following heads
- Fundamental research (Pure or basic research): It is concerned with generalization and formulation of a theory. it aims at knowledge production. It concentrate of natural phenomenon.
- Applied research (Action research): It is concerned with the solution of particular problem. It is empirical and practical
- Descriptive research (Ex-post facto research): It is a fact finding investigation. It is the description of the state of affairs as it exists.
- Analytical research: It analyses available facts and information to make critical evaluation of the material.
- Quantitative research: It relates to those phenomenons which can be measured quantitatively
- Qualitative research: It is concerned with qualitative phenomenon
- Conceptual research: It relates to some abstract ideas or theories. It is generally used by philosophers and thinkers to develop new concepts or interpret existing ones
- Empirical research (experimental research): It relies of experience or observation