The Ultimate Guide to UX Research: Resources, Methods, & Tips
Whether you're new to user research or ready to take your skills to the next level, you are in the right place. This article has real-world advice and carefully picked resources to help you break into the field of user research or grow in your role to become the kind of researcher stakeholders will listen to.
Contents
Who Is This Guide to UX Research For?
This guide. Is the best for:
New UX researchers trying to land their first role
Designers and Product managers transitioning into research or trying to learn some research skills
Mid-level researchers aiming to move up or lead
Anyone trying to influence stakeholders with insights
Are you new to UX Research?
The first step in any UX research journey is getting familiar with tools, methods, and mindset. A good rule of thumb would be:
Step 1: Learn the methods
Begin by exploring the key UX research methods: generative, evaluative, and behavioral. Don't get obsessed with theory—focus on the "why" behind each method and when to use it.
Step 2: Get Hands-On Experience
Reading is great, but practice is better. Start small. Interview a friend about their morning routine. Run a usability test on a website you use every day. Analyze how people navigate your favorite app. Treat every interaction like a learning opportunity.
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Essential UX Research Methods (and When to Use Them)
In fast-paced teams, the best researchers know how to prioritize methods that deliver impact without slowing down the product cycle. Here are the core user research methods you'll use most:
Interviews
A method where you are directly to users or internal stakeholders. This attitudinal method uncovers motivations, needs, and pain points. It's best early in the discovery phase.
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Planning Your Interview
How to Conduct a Good Interview
Usability Testing
A method where you watch people interact with a product or prototype. This behavioral method reveals friction and unmet expectations. Usability testing can be moderated or unmoderated, remote or in-person.
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Surveys
A method that is great for quantitative validation or reaching a broader audience. It is used to collect large quantities of qualitative feedback. Use surveys to measure satisfaction, feature demand, or evaluate priorities.
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Analytics & Behavioral Data
Data analytics, heatmaps, and screen replays provide insights into what users actually do in the experience. Marry this data with qualitative insights for a fuller picture.
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A/B Testing
A method allowing you to run experiments to test which design or copy performs better. It's a powerful way to validate ideas, especially when based on prior qualitative research.
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Combining attitudinal (what people say) and behavioral (what they do) methods makes your insights super effective. Want more on method selection? Check out this NNG guide to UX research methods.