Introduction

Starting with qualitative codes, working through categorization and theme generation, and ending with theme testing, this handbook aims to give you a foundational look at a specific form of qualitative data analysis, thematic analysis.

Qualitative data analysis (QDA) is not as simple as putting your data onto post-it notes and moving them around. QDA is about a focused reflection, investigation, and validation into the meaning within your qualitative data. You keep track of what you’re reading, noticing, and understanding through the process of qualitative coding or coding for short (covered in-depth in the next section). You’re adding your meaning to what’s there, systematically and logically.

The goal is to walk away with a handful of data-backed and comprehendible qualitative themes or repeated, recognizable, and relevant patterns that speak to the meaning of your data.

What this Handbook can’t do is give you shortcut or hack to analyzing qualitative data. As many talented qualitative researchers know, there are no shortcuts when it comes to developing your qualitative data analysis skills. You’ll have to practice and get experience applying the ideas in this Handbook and elsewhere. It will take time. But know that becoming an efficient qualitative data analyst will be a skill you’ll use time and time again as an experience researcher.

Let’s start this handbook by understanding what qualitative coding is.