Sociologists are committed to the use of the scientific method in their research. The basic steps in the scientific method are: defining the problem, reviewing the literature, formulating the hypothesis, selecting the research design, and collecting and analyzing the data. Finally, the researcher develops a conclusion based on the findings of the research.

An operational definition transforms an abstract concept into indicators that are observable and measurable, allowing researchers to assess the concept. A review of the literature concerning the problem under study helps refine the problem and reduce avoidable mistakes. A hypothesis is a testable statement about the relationship between two or more factors known as variables. Variables are measurable traits or characteristics that are subject to change under different conditions. The variable hypothesized to cause or influence another variable is called the independent variable. The variable that is changed by or dependent on the independent variable is called the dependent variable. A correlation exists when a change in one variable coincides with a change in the other.

In most studies, social scientists carefully select a sample. A sample is a selection from a larger population that is statistically representative of the population. In a random sample, every member of the population being studied has the same chance of being selected for the study.

The scientific method requires both validity and reliability. Validity refers to the degree to which a measure or scale truly reflects the phenomenon under study. Reliability refers to the extent to which a measure produces consistent results. Sociological studies sometime fail to support the original hypothesis and researchers must reformulate their conclusions. Control variables are those factors that are held constant to test the relative impact of an independent variable.

A research design is a detailed plan or method for obtaining data scientifically. Surveys are a common method of quantitative research used by researchers to collect data. Surveys may consist of oral interviews or written questionnaires. Observation is a qualitative research method, which allows researchers to collect data through everyday interaction with a group or community under study. Experiments are artificially created situations in which researchers can manipulate variables. Typically, an experimental group is exposed to the independent variable and the control group is not. Analyzing existing data that has been previously collected is called secondary analysis. Content analysis involves the systematic coding and objective recording of data, such as using newspapers, periodicals, and other common documents or venues to interpret and test the significance of data. All researchers must abide by a code of ethics to ensure that researchers are not causing harm or violating a person's privacy. Most research seeks to remain value neutral in its judgments when interpreting research results. Sociologists using the feminist perspective have had the greatest impact on the current generation of social researchers. Feminist theorists reject the notion that work and family are separate spheres, and have drawn attention to researchers' tendency to overlook women in sociological studies.