The most powerful and reliable study is a prospective study. In a prospective study, the subjects of the study are first identified and then are followed forward in time. Prospective studies are often contrasted with retrospective studies, in which subjects are identified after an intervention has occurred. Data are gathered in real time and analyzed both during the study and after the study is complete. A prospective study can last weeks, months, or years. The longer the duration of the study, the more importance investigators give to the results.
Tags: prospective | research | study
