"Methodological know-how has become one of the key qualifications in contemporary linguistics, which has a strong empirical focus. Containing twenty-three chapters, each devoted to a different research method, this volume brings together the expertise and insight of a range of established practitioners. The chapters are arranged in three parts, devoted to three different stages of empirical research : data collection, analysis, and evaluation. In addition to detailed step-by-step introductions and illustrative case studies focusing on variation and change in English, each chapter addresses the strengths and weaknesses of the methodology and concludes with suggestions for further reading. This systematic, state-of-the-art survey is ideal for both novice researchers and professionals interested in extending their methodological repertories. The book also has a companion website which provides readers with further information, links, resources, demonstrations, exercises and case studies related to each chapter." --from back cover.