Quantitative research involves collecting numerical data using scientific methods to statistically analyze observable phenomena. It aims to describe variables, examine relationships between variables, and determine causal effects. Key characteristics include using structured research instruments to gather data from large, representative samples and carefully designing all aspects of the study before collecting data, which is presented numerically. Common types of quantitative research are descriptive research to depict participants accurately, correlational research to determine relationships between variables, quasi-experimental research using non-random groups, and experimental research manipulating variables to establish causal effects.