Although there are many books about research and research methods in education and the social sciences; very few focus specifically on critically reading research that has been completed by others. When reading and thinking about published research; it is useful to understand the complexity of what is involved in the process of research and how it is presented. Understanding research: an introduction to reading research aims to introduce key concepts through the use of simple language to promote better understanding; build on South African as well as international examples and case studies; and develop the conceptual knowledge and skills necessary to evaluate research carefully and critically.