In research, what does an operational definition specify?

An operational definition is crucial in research as it provides a clear and precise description of how a concept will be measured or identified in a study. This definition transforms abstract concepts into measurable entities that can be assessed through specific procedures or criteria. For instance, if the research study involves examining "anxiety," the operational definition might specify the use of a standardized questionnaire or psychological assessment scores to quantify anxiety levels among participants.

By outlining how concepts are concretely measured, operational definitions ensure clarity and consistency across research studies, enabling replication and validation by other researchers. This is particularly important in the scientific community, where precise measurements underpin the reliability and credibility of research findings.