Exploratory factor analysis is meant to be exploratory
in nature, and thus it is not desirable to prescribe a rigid formula
or process for executing an EFA. The steps below are meant to be a
loose guide, understanding that a factor analysis often requires returning
to previous steps and trying other approaches to ensure the best outcome.
The general pattern of performing an EFA falls into six general steps
that will guide the discussion through the rest of the book:
-
-
Deciding on an extraction
method to use
-
Deciding how many factors
to retain
-
Deciding on a method
of rotation (if desired)
-
Interpreting results
(return to #3 if a solution is not ideal)
-
Replication or evaluation ...