What is the purpose of a pilot study?

The purpose of a pilot study is primarily to test research procedures before conducting full-scale research. In a pilot study, researchers implement their study's design on a smaller scale to identify any potential issues, refine methodologies, and ensure that the research instruments (such as surveys or data collection tools) are effective and clear. This helps in validating the feasibility of the planned research and in making any necessary adjustments to optimize the main study's execution.

During a pilot study, researchers can gather preliminary data that might also indicate whether their research questions are well-defined and whether the intended methods will yield useful information. By identifying potential challenges early on, the pilot study enhances the reliability and efficiency of the overall research project, ultimately leading to more accurate and valid conclusions in the larger study.