Thematic analysis - a process for encoding qualitative information - can be thought of as a bridge between the languages of qualitative and quantitative research. This book helps students and researchers understand thematic analysis as a process that is a part of many qualitative methods, and provides clear guidance about learning to develop techniques to apply to research. The book shows how one can sense themes - the first step in analyzing information - as well as how to develop codes through the use of numerous examples from different research settings.

A necessary, but not sufficient source
There are precious few sources of information which clearly lay out method in thematic analysis during qualitative research. This book is the most detailed source which I have found in this area. I did complete a master's program, and early on in the program found that I did not clearly understand what Boyatzis was presenting, suggesting that the new reader should first have a basic understanding of the qualitative research process before starting this book. The book is, however, clearly written and easy to read. This book presents a limited view of the breadth of approach to methodology and method in qualitative research, but would be a fine starting point for one embarking on the design and completion of a qualitative project. Look around for other approaches, if that seems appropriate to your perspective. Other useful overview books include: Creswell Qualitative Inquiry and Research Design: Choosing Among Five Approaches among his many works, Pope and Mays Qualitative Research in Health Care and Moustakas Phenomenological Research Methods among many others. Sage publishes the bulk of the work on qualitative research. Best of luck!