Descriptive methods are research techniques used to systematically observe and describe characteristics of a subject or phenomenon. These methods focus on providing a detailed account of what is happening without manipulating variables. Common examples include surveys, case studies, and observational studies, which help researchers gather information about behaviors, attitudes, or conditions. These methods are valuable in various fields, including psychology, sociology, and market research. By using descriptive methods, researchers can identify patterns and trends, leading to a better understanding of the subject matter. However, they do not establish cause-and-effect relationships, which is a limitation of this approach.