for water pollution, we need to identify the types of chemical, physical, radioactive, biological pollutants, etc. Hence how to choose methods and instruments of qualitative and quantitative measures?
Try the book on Standard Methods for Analysis of Water and Wastewater. In addition, sometimes indicators or surrogates may be used, such as aquatic insects in streams. Unless you plan to analyze many samples over time, it may be more cost effective to have a full suite of tests run by a certified laboratory. Then if specific pollutants become identified in reconnaissance testing, you might decide to study these in more detail and purchase appropriate equipment and analytical training or certification. For some legal and research grade work, data must be from certified lab or analyst, and with sampling chain of custody documented, proper collection and preservation of samples, etc. In addition, there is a needed understanding of the sources of pollution, understanding of the water cycle and dynamics pertinent to the situation. So consultation with or training of hydrologist, geologist, hydrogeologist, limnologist, aquatic biologist, analytical chemist, civil engineer, soil scientist, meteorologist/climatologist and statistician may be helpful in addressing some of the complex questions that can emerge in water quality pollution studies. Helpful also are opportunities to review articles or examples of research similar to the specific areas of interest and review methods used, successes and limitations..