This study endeavors to provide researchers with a comprehensive, step-by-step methodological guide to conducting rigorous and reproducible bibliometric analysis. It addresses common methodological challenges associated with data collection, analytical technique selection, software application, and the interpretation of bibliometric findings. The study adopts a methodological review approach, drawing on established bibliometric literature to examine the principal stages of the research process. It discusses research question formulation, database selection, search strategy development, data screening and cleaning, performance analysis, science mapping, visualization, and reporting. The study identifies several methodological considerations that are essential for conducting credible bibliometric studies. These include aligning analytical techniques with research objectives, ensuring the quality and consistency of bibliographic data, selecting appropriate normalization and clustering procedures, and interpreting bibliometric networks within their methodological limitations. The study also highlights common analytical pitfalls and practical measures for improving transparency and reproducibility. The paper contributes to the bibliometric literature by presenting bibliometric analysis as an interconnected methodological process rather than a software-driven exercise. By integrating methodological principles, practical guidance, and considerations for interpreting and reporting findings, it provides researchers with a structured guide for conducting bibliometric studies. It also offers reviewers and journal editors a basis for evaluating the methodological rigor of bibliometric research.