Understanding how to research in Raft is crucial for progressing in the game. While it may seem straightforward, some players may find themselves confused about the process. In this guide, we will provide a detailed walkthrough of how to research, explain how research works, and highlight what to keep in mind when researching in Raft.

How to Research in Raft

Researching in Raft primarily serves the purpose of unlocking new recipes. When all the ingredients of a recipe are researched, the new recipe is permanently unlocked. Below are the three steps to successfully research in Raft.

1. Make the Research Table

To create the Research Table, you will need 14 Planks and 2 Scraps. While the required materials are not overly difficult to obtain, it may be a bit challenging in the early stages of the game. It is advisable to gather sufficient materials before making the Research Table to ensure smooth progress. Additionally, extra resources are needed for the actual researching process.

After gathering the required materials, open the crafting menu by pressing “Tab,” then navigate to the Other tab with a chest icon to find the Research Table recipe. Once located, click “Craft” to create the Research Table, which will be transferred to your inventory. Subsequently, place it on your raft from your hot bar.

2. Research Resources

With a Research Table and researchable items in your inventory, it’s time to begin the research process. Stand close to the Research Table and press “E” to open the research panel. You will find a single slot at the top and numerous locked recipes at the bottom. To research an item, place it in the top slot and click the “Research” button.

Researchable items in Raft can be found in various primary locations, including the ocean/barrels, crafting, foraging from islands, and smelting. Each item only needs to be researched once to unlock all recipes associated with it, and remember that the item will be consumed once research is complete.

• Picking from the ocean/barrels:
  • Palm Leaf
  • Plank
  • Plastic
  • Scrap
  • Stone
• Crafting:
  • Circuit Board
  • Dry Brick
  • Empty Bottle
  • Hinge
  • Nail
  • Rope
  • Paint
• Foraging from islands:
  • Bee Jar
  • Clay
  • Dirt
  • Flowers
  • Giant Clam
  • Honeycomb
  • Seaweed
• Smelting:
  • Copper Ingot
  • Explosive Powder
  • Glass
  • Metal Ingot
  • Vine Goo
  • Titanium Ingot

3. Learn Recipes

After researching enough items for a specific recipe, a new “Learn” button will appear. Click on it to permanently unlock the new recipe in your crafting tab. It’s also worth noting that players may discover new recipes from blueprints, with no difference in unlocking recipes whether from research or blueprints.