What is the purpose of coding in qualitative research?

The purpose of coding in qualitative research is to categorize data by identifying themes for analysis. This process involves reviewing qualitative data, such as interviews, open-ended survey responses, or field notes, and assigning labels or codes to various segments of the text based on the content, context, or underlying meanings. By doing so, researchers can systematically organize their data, making it easier to analyze trends, patterns, or themes that emerge from the information collected.

Through coding, researchers can draw connections between different pieces of data and identify key insights or concepts that are present in the responses. This thematic categorization is crucial in qualitative research because it transforms raw, complex data into a more manageable and interpretable format, allowing for deeper analysis and interpretation of the findings.

Using coding effectively enables researchers to contribute to theory building, deepen understanding of social phenomena, and support their conclusions with evidence derived directly from participants' experiences and perspectives.