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description: Use when you need to observe users in their real environment to understand actual behavior
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# Contextual Inquiry

A field research method where you observe and interview users in their natural work or life environment to uncover behaviors, workarounds, and needs they cannot articulate in a lab setting.

## Steps

1. **Plan the visit** — Define research questions, select participants, and prepare a lightweight discussion guide.
2. **Observe in context** — Watch the user perform real tasks in their actual environment without intervening.
3. **Inquire during action** — Ask questions in the moment: "Why did you do that?" or "What are you thinking right now?"
4. **Document artifacts** — Note tools, workarounds, sticky notes, and environmental cues the user relies on.
5. **Debrief and synthesize** — Immediately after, summarize observations, key quotes, and unexpected findings into themes.

## Output Format

A field report per session containing: participant context, annotated task flow, key observations with photos/sketches, direct quotes, and a list of design implications.