Research typically begins when you need the information to solve a problem - fulfilling an academic assignment, professional project, or for your own personal purposes. Approaching the research process with a plan in mind will give direction to your efforts and help you stay focused.
A research strategy will help you be more efficient and effective and enhance the quality of your research.
The basics of the research process include:
STEP 1: Clearly define your topic & information need
STEP 2: Begin exploring subject overviews for better understanding and to refine your thesis
STEP 3: Consider potential search keywords and form the search strategy
STEP 4: Search for information using a wide variety of discovery tools and formats
STEP 5: Evaluate information for relevance, credibility & currency
STEP 6: Analyze & incorporate information into the project
STEP 7: Recognize sources used by giving proper citation
Before starting your research, be sure you understand the details of your assignment.
This includes:
Check your syllabus for additional details. When in doubt, ask your professor.
Use this tool to make a plan for completing your assignment
You can print out forms to keep track of your semester, weekly, and hourly schedules.