Replicate the studies of others whenever possible.

1.Replicate the studies of others whenever possible. Finding a similar study can help jump-start your own study by describing procedures and measures that you might be able to use. The original author will likely be flattered; contact with him or her may garner you free advice as well.

2. Use standard designs, methods, and procedures whenever possible, even if they do not exactly match your question. Standardized approaches allow for the aggregation of similar studies into practical guidelines that make a contribution to the overall body of nursing knowledge.