Do you want to use longitudinal data in a research project? This book provides a strong foundation in the fundamentals of longitudinal research, helping you understand where your secondary data come from and discussing core issues in longitudinal research, such as study design, sampling, attrition and missing data. Covering each step of the research process, from understanding theory through data collection and analysis to writing up, the book offers practical tools to give you confidence in working with longitudinal data. It also: Supports your learning with features such as ′Check your Understanding′ questions and further reading.  Examines challenges unique to longitudinal research - and offers solutions. Explores the realities of using longitudinal data with over 25 case studies of research from across the globe including Australia, Germany, Malaysia, New Zealand, the UK and the US. This straightforward guide is the perfect introduction to longitudinal research for students and researchers across the social sciences.