The primary aim of a concept analysis is to carefully study, clarify, develop, and critically assess a particular concept (Smith & Mörelius, 2021), all to attain a more profound and detailed understanding of the concept.

Principle-based concept analysis is the analysis of a concept according to four broad philosophical principles: epistemological, pragmatic, linguistic and logical.

The concept analysis allows the researcher to progress to subsequent phases of the research process such as operationalizing the concept, selecting a design, and choosing an appropriate measurement instrument.

Concept analyses are an essential practice in building the body of nursing science. A discussion regarding nursing as a discipline, profession, or vocation is provided. The contributions of concept analyses to nursing science and various methods of performing concept analyses are presented.

An overview of the most common CA methods used in recent years, including theoretical underpinnings, intended uses, steps involved in the process, and recommended applications, is followed by detailed guidance in selecting a method to use for the specific concept to be analyzed.