An outline of a general inductive approach for qualitative data analysis is described and
details provided about the assumptions and procedures used. The purposes for using an
inductive approach are to (1) to condense extensive and varied raw text data into a brief,
summary format; (2) to establish clear links between the research objectives and the
summary findings derived from the raw data and (3) to develop of model or theory about
the underlying structure of experiences or processes which are evident in the raw data.
The inductive approach reflects frequently reported patterns used in qualitative data
analysis. Most inductive studies report a model that has between three and eight main
categories in the findings. The general inductive approach provides a convenient and
efficient way of analysing qualitative data for many research purposes. The outcomes of
analysis may be indistinguishable from those derived from a grounded theory approach.
Many researchers are likely to find using a general inductive approach more
straightforward than some of the other traditional approaches to qualitative data analysis.