This literature review by Haradhan Kumar Mohajan discusses the proper use of qualitative research methodology in social sciences and related subjects. The paper aims to provide new researchers with a basic understanding of qualitative research, highlighting its design, methods, and characteristics. Qualitative research is inductive and exploratory, focusing on meanings and insights in natural settings. It involves interpretive and naturalistic approaches, using non-numerical data to interpret social life and understand human behavior, emotions, attitudes, and experiences. The paper covers various qualitative research methods, including phenomenology, ethnography, narrative approach, grounded theory, content analysis, action research, historical research, and case study. Each method is described in detail, emphasizing its unique features and applications. The review also discusses the historical background of qualitative research, its development, and its significance in various fields such as education, health care, sociology, and psychology. The paper concludes by outlining the characteristics of qualitative research, such as its focus on direct data collection, interpretive analysis, and the role of the researcher as the primary instrument.This literature review by Haradhan Kumar Mohajan discusses the proper use of qualitative research methodology in social sciences and related subjects. The paper aims to provide new researchers with a basic understanding of qualitative research, highlighting its design, methods, and characteristics. Qualitative research is inductive and exploratory, focusing on meanings and insights in natural settings. It involves interpretive and naturalistic approaches, using non-numerical data to interpret social life and understand human behavior, emotions, attitudes, and experiences. The paper covers various qualitative research methods, including phenomenology, ethnography, narrative approach, grounded theory, content analysis, action research, historical research, and case study. Each method is described in detail, emphasizing its unique features and applications. The review also discusses the historical background of qualitative research, its development, and its significance in various fields such as education, health care, sociology, and psychology. The paper concludes by outlining the characteristics of qualitative research, such as its focus on direct data collection, interpretive analysis, and the role of the researcher as the primary instrument.