• The meaning of our study depends on how well we measure the variables of interest. Operational definitions are the procedures that translate our ideas into specific measurements.
  
  
• When possible, select measures or procedures available in published literature.
  
  
• Specific measurement procedures vary in observational, survey, and experimental research. In all cases, good operational definitions require a great deal of thought about what you want to know/measure.
  
  
• All operational definitions require clear directions and language that all participants and observers can understand.
  
  
• Consider reliability and validity when developing your operational definitions.

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