Documentary research is a method of data collection and analysis that involves the study of written texts and other documents, including personal diaries, government policies, fictional works, mass media output, historical records, and organisational reports. This type of research provides valuable insights into social phenomena, cultural values, historical trends, and individual experiences. Researchers using documentary methods analyse the content, context, and meaning of these documents to answer their research questions. Personal diaries and letters can offer rich qualitative data about individual lives and perspectives. Government policies and official reports can reveal institutional practices and societal priorities. Fictional works and mass media can reflect and shape cultural norms and ideologies. Historical documents provide evidence of past events and social structures. The strength of documentary research lies in its ability to provide access to information that might not be available through other methods, such as surveys or interviews, and to study phenomena over time. It is often used in historical sociology, media studies, and qualitative research to provide context and depth to sociological analysis.