ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the methods of analysis used in second language (L2) variationist research. It traces the development of the field, including the emergence of two types of L2 variation research. It tracks three methodological waves in sociolinguistics and highlights the effect of the learning context on L2 variation. In its presentation of main research methods, the chapter discusses the types of questions addressed in the field, the sociolinguistic variables examined, the data collection methods employed, the (extra‑)linguistic factors affecting variant choice, and the methods of analysis. The chapter concludes with recommendations for practice and future directions of the field.
