First steps to begin in research
A practical route for turning a nursing question into a research path.
Research is fundamental to the development of Nursing and health. As a student or nurse, you can help improve clinical practice by identifying knowledge gaps and seeking new solutions to health problems. Beginning can feel intimidating, but this guide is here to make the first stages clearer and more achievable.
Below, you will find practical guidance—from choosing a topic that matters to you to presenting and publishing what you learn. It brings together steps that help you find experienced supervisors, strengthen your theoretical foundation and engage with research projects.
Where to go next
Want to discover an area that matches your interests?
TAKE THE QUIZ →See how to find active research groups in your region.
FIND GROUPS →Readings and resources to support your first studies.
ACCESS RESOURCES →1. Identify your area of interest
Before beginning a study, choose a topic that is meaningful and relevant to you. Start with an area that interests you or with a problem you would like to help address in practice.
Questions that can help you choose:
- What do I want to discover?
- Is there a problem I have noticed in my work or studies?
- What question do I want my research to answer?
- How could this improve people’s lives?
Carry out an initial search to see whether similar studies already exist. This helps identify what is already known and where there is space for your contribution. Choose something that motivates you and is feasible for your context and level of experience.
2. Seek supervision
Finding a supervisor is an important part of scientific research. They can guide the project, help you identify knowledge gaps, discuss the proposal and support scientific writing. Look for professors and health professionals with experience in your area of interest, and seek both expertise and a working relationship in which you feel comfortable.
3. Join research groups
Research groups are a valuable way to meet other researchers, exchange ideas and learn new skills. This regular contact can also bring you closer to potential supervisors. Look for groups in your institution, nearby institutions or online communities. Enfermagem Pesquisadora also brings together active Brazilian Nursing research groups registered with CNPq.
4. Build theoretical knowledge
A solid theoretical foundation provides the structure and context needed to understand your question and your results. Read scientific articles and reference books in your area. Databases such as BDENF, CINAHL, LILACS, PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science are useful starting points; seminars, workshops and online discussion groups also support practical learning.
5. Take part in research projects
Research projects offer practical knowledge and direct experience. You may work with nurses, physicians and other members of a multidisciplinary health team through internships, undergraduate research, volunteering in laboratories, research groups or direct contact with lecturers.
When you take part in a research project, you may carry out different activities and develop important skills, such as:
Activities
- Data collection and analysis
- Scientific literature review
- Preparation of reports and scientific articles
- Other project tasks
Skills
- Teamwork
- Project management
- Communication
- Problem-solving
6. Attend academic events
Conferences, symposiums, workshops and scientific meetings are spaces to learn, share ideas and discuss findings with other professionals. They also create connections and, in many cases, make it possible to publish presented work in proceedings. Watch dates, registration periods and student discounts.
7. Publish your studies
Publishing scientific articles shares results with the scientific community and contributes to the advancement of Nursing. Choose a journal that fits your topic, scope and audience, and follow its structure, formatting and reference rules carefully. The process may take time and include revisions, but each stage strengthens your work.