title: Doing A Pilot Study: Why Is It Essential?
abstract: A pilot study is one of the essential stages in a research project. This paper aims to describe the importance of and steps involved in executing a pilot study by using an example of a descriptive study in primary care. The process of testing the feasibility of the project proposal, recruitment of subjects, research tool and data analysis was reported. We conclude that a pilot study is necessary and useful in providing the groundwork in a research project.
authors: FRACGP, Klinik Keluarga, Kuala Lumpur;
authors: Zailinawati Abu
authors: ZA
authors: Hassan
authors: MMed, Department of General Practice, Monash University, Australia.
authors: Peter
authors: P
authors: Schattner
authors: Danielle
authors: D
authors: Mazza
keywords: pilot study; primary care