UX Research Basics

Reading list for non-existent course UX Research 101

In a few words (5 min read)

This simple checklist from Usability.gov contains the list of most popular research methods. Includes recommendations when to use a specific method during every phase of the user-centred design process defined as: Know Your User, Content, Design, Test & Refine.

Step by step (5–30 min read)

A detailed answer to the same question: “What type of research should I do during each phase of my project?” from Norman Nielsen blog. Includes statistics of most popular research methods and useful tips on how to approach user research in each phase of the design cycle. Cheat sheet form makes it easy to navigate.

Deep dive (30 min to a few hours read)

Smashing Magazine Guide to Research is an excellent overview of all things user research related — this is a longer read, but well worth your time. It gives a better understanding of the research process, contains a deep dive into most popular methods and is full of practical tips too.

This book is a classic intro to user research. You will often find other UX researchers recommending it as an excellent read for beginners in the field. What sets Erika Hall book apart from others is the balance between just enough practical advice and storytelling. It is this combination that makes it an enjoyable yet useful read.

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