There are many ways to approach the research process. As you gain experience doing research assignments you will gradually develop a process that works best for you. In the mean time, you might want to look at the steps below, which represent one way you can organize your research process.
- Read and understand your assignment
- Email your professor any questions you may have OR
- Arrange an appoint to talk to your professor during his/her office hours
- Identify and develop your topic. ...
- Do some background research to get a better understanding of your topic
- You may use Wikipedia for this stage.
- Consult the "Understanding the Topic -- Background Research" of this guide.
- List the major issues, opinions, perspectives, etc. related to the topic.
- Write down terminology/vocabulary related to the topic.
- Begin to focus on one aspect of the topic.
- Draft a research question
- Do a preliminary search for information ...
- You can again see what Wikipedia has but then go to the Library's databases to find authoritative information. Again try the "Understanding the Topic -- Background Research" page of this guide.
- Identify databases that will most likely give you articles or other data on your topic.
- It is strongly suggested that you seek help at the Reference Desk in the Library
- Locate materials. ...
- Evaluate your sources. ...
- Make notes. ...
- Write the first draft of your paper.
- Give yourself a day or so and proofread your first draft and make changes as needed.
- Write final draft that includes changes and or corrections from your proofreading.
