How to Write a Case Study

A case study is defined as a study of a single individual, group, community, or an event. It is one of the common methods of research and involves an in-depth study of the 'case', which is the actual subject matter. It involves collection and analysis of data relating to the topic and a conclusion or the result.

There are various types of case studies - illustrative, exploratory, cumulative, and critical. Writing case studies is not confined to academic fronts. It is a widely-used tool of research, that is made use of in various domains. Case studies are often prepared by professionals, like doctors, lawyers and judges.

Most of the case studies are found to be associated with common problems in a particular area. It involves a deep study of the problem, its effects on people and the possible solutions. Usually, writing a case study involves different phases.

Once you identify the case, the next step is research about the various facets of the case. After collecting the data, you have to analyze it and find solutions for the problems. The most important part is writing the case study in light of the information you have.

Research or Collection of Data: As mentioned above, a case study is research about a particular 'case', which could be a problem that can be solved. You can start with research of the topic. You may either do internet research or select a good library.

Refer magazines, other books, newspapers, and websites. You can accentuate the research with some interviews of those people, who are associated with the case. This may help you in finding the solution or reaching a conclusion.

Analysis of Data: Once you have collected relevant information related to the case, put it together. Sort the information and view it in the light of the problems associated with your case. If you need more data, you have to continue the research. If you come up with possible solutions for the problem, you can start writing the case study.

Now, you have done your research, collected the required information, made an analysis, and have reached a conclusion. At this stage, you can start writing the case study.

• Decide a title for the case study. The title must be unique and intriguing, so that the reader gets interested in it.

• Explain your case or the problems associated with the case. You have to give a detailed outline of the case, right from its cause and its effects.
• Once you are done with it, discuss the possible solutions for the problem, and the reasons for reaching that conclusion. You have to make the readers understand the benefits of the solution and how it works.

• While making them aware of the possible solutions, you may also leave some questions for the readers to ponder, so that they discuss the case.

In short, there is no particular design for writing a case study. You have to present it in such a way that it is easily understandable to the readers. They must get a clear idea about the case, its background, problems related to it, and the possible solutions.