Research assistance refers to the support provided to individuals or groups in gathering, analyzing, and interpreting information for various purposes. This can include help with finding relevant sources, organizing data, and summarizing findings. Research assistants often work in academic settings, but they can also be found in businesses, non-profits, and government agencies. Typically, research assistance involves collaboration between a researcher and an assistant, who may be a student or a professional. The assistant's role can vary from conducting literature reviews to managing databases, ensuring that the research process is efficient and effective. This support is crucial for projects related to science, social studies, or market analysis.