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Empirical research is based on observed and measured phenomena and derives knowledge from actual experience rather than from theory or belief.
How do you know if a study is empirical? Read the subheadings within the article, book, or report and look for a description of the research "methodology." Ask yourself: Could I recreate this study and test these results?
Key characteristics to look for:
Another hint: some scholarly journals use a specific layout, called the "IMRaD" format, to communicate empirical research findings. Such articles typically have 4 components:
Also, look for opportunities to narrow your search to scholarly, academic, or peer-reviewed journals articles in the database.
Adapted from "Research Methods: Finding Empirical Articles" by Jill Anderson at Georgia State University Library.
See the complete A-Z databases list for more resources
The primary content of this guide was originally created by Ellysa Cahoy at Penn State Libraries.