Background Coding for gerunds is useful in developing theory in grounded theory. However, it can be confusing for the novice researcher to recognise these words, which consider actions more abstractly.

Aim To explain how to identify, analyse and code gerunds, using the example of a constructivist grounded theory study investigating the design of operating rooms.

Discussion Coding for gerunds helped to illustrate participants’ actions and sequences in the example study and added depth to the researcher’s understanding of certain topics.

Conclusion Coding gerunds can improve the insights obtained in grounded theory studies.

Implications for practice This article may encourage nurse researchers to focus on actions to add depth to their qualitative analyses.