What is the primary purpose of a pilot study?

The primary purpose of a pilot study is to test the feasibility and design of the research. Conducting a pilot study allows researchers to identify potential issues in their research design and methodology before committing to a full-scale study. This preliminary research can reveal whether the methods, instruments, and procedures are effective and appropriate for the study goal.

By running a smaller version of the intended study, researchers can observe how well their questions function, whether the sampling methods are effective, and if the logistics of data collection are manageable. This process can lead to adjustments that improve the overall study quality and help ensure that resources are used efficiently and effectively in the actual research.