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general concept (Bryant & Charmaz, 2006, p. 188). Using this reference as a foundation, the
data was analyzed first using coding, and secondly using memo-writing. Coding is giving
different pieces of the data short names, in order to help the researcher see ideas embedded
within the data and make comparisons between sets of data. The first type of coding used is
initial coding, which involves three different methods; word by word, line by line, and incident
by incident. Each of these methods allow the researcher to find themes within the data that
might not have otherwise been found, therefore, it is to the study‟s advantage to use all methods.
Charmaz notes that coding should be done spontaneously and quickly, using gerunds that reflect
action. She also notes that it is important in early stages of coding for the researcher to remain
open and try to void themselves of any preconceived notions. Focused coding, the next step of
the coding process, involves the analysis and categorization of the initial codes, deciding the
significance of each code and where it fits in the grand scheme of the data. Charmaz notes that
this step is not linear and that the researcher must sort through data numerous times, in many
directions for new perspectives to become apparent. At this point in comparing the data, themes
become more refined and major categories are formed.
Memo-writing, the transition from categories/codes to an actual theory, relies on the
researcher to take a fresh look at the now organized data and analyze it, writing down every
thought that enters their mind. In other words, it is a way to make the analysis process tangible,
turning ideas into a form that can be re-evaluated, moved around, and pulled apart. It is
suggested that the researcher begins by first analyzing the categories and then comparing the
categories to codes or other data. This step is only concerned with the researcher‟s individual
analytic process, therefore, the length of memos is not a concern as long as the researcher gives
the memo a title and does not leave out a thought. Like coding, memo-writing should be
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