Noting that conversation analysis (CA) has developed into one of the major methods of analyzing speech in the disciplines of communications, linguistics, anthropology and sociology, this book demonstrates in a practical way how to become a conversation analyst. As well as providing an overall introduction to the approach, it focuses on the theoretical, methodological and practical aspects of doing CA research. Illustrated with detailed examples of actual recordings of interactional talk in ordinary settings, the book also includes practical exercises and further reading lists. Chapters in Part 1 (Considering CA) are: (1) Introducing the CA Paradigm; (2) Three Exemplary Studies; and (3) Ideas and Evidence in CA Research. Chapters in Part 2 (Producing Data) are: (4) Collecting/Producing Recordings; and (5) Transcribing Talk-in-Interaction. Chapters in Part 3 (Analyzing Data) are: (6) Analytic Strategies; and (7) Elaborating the Analysis. Chapters in Part 4 (Sharing Data, Ideas, and Findings) are: (8) Applied CA: Institutional Interaction; (9) Applied CA: Local Rationalities; and (10) Making Data, Ideas, and Findings Public. Appendixes contain transcription conventions, exercises, and an exemplary consent form. (Contains 250 references.) (RS)