How To Do Descriptive Coding

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What is descriptive coding?

Descriptive coding is a first cycle method of coding that involves reading through qualitative data, and coding passages according to topic. Descriptive codes are often in the form of a noun, and summarizes the topic of the data.

“Tagging” and using “Hashtags” in social media is a widely used version of descriptive coding. Descriptive codes identify the topic, but don't derive further meaning from the data, or add much insight into what the participant is thinking. To derive meaning from data, use alternative coding methods such as in vivo coding or values coding.

The result of descriptive coding is a categorized inventory or index of data organized by topic. This can be used for further analysis and interpretation in further rounds of coding.

When should I use descriptive coding?

You’re a beginner to qualitative research
When you have a wide variety of data forms (transcripts, field notes, journals, documents, diaries, correspondence, artifacts, video)
If you’re tracking longitudinal changes across multiple studies
When you want to organize a large data set by topic area