A new manual to support self-training and teaching of qualitative research methods has been launched by the Evidence for Action research consortium. The manual is aimed primarily at non- social scientists working in low- and middle-income settings. It provides an accessible, interesting, and clear guide to using qualitative research methods in applied health settings.
The manual is organised around three main goals:

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  To introduce qualitative thinking in research;



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  To assist in planning, choosing, and using qualitative research methods in health-related studies and;



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  To enable the management of qualitative data with a view to preliminary analysis.

All three authors have been working in health and development for many years, and draw extensively on their own experience of teaching and using qualitative research methods. Short, informative texts that introduce key concepts are combined with examples, visual illustrations, and exercises to enhance learning. The manual provides feedback on the exercises as well as a list of further resources. The manual may be used as an introductory or refresher self-learning guide, or in support of short-term training in qualitative research methods for applied health research.