ABSTRACT
In this chapter, readers learn about the importance of understanding existing literature. Key aspects of this chapter include defining empirical and nonempirical literature and delineating different resources for accessing literature—even for those without access to a college or university library. In addition, the chapter provides guidelines for how to consume and critique empirical research, including a detailed walk-through of what should be included in each section of an empirical manuscript (including introduction, methods, results, and discussion) and an example walk-through. The chapter concludes with a section on applying existing research to practice geared for helping practitioners consume and apply research to their current practice.
