It's a trap! Don't do it!
1. Identify your topic. Be clear about the goals of your task and identify your topic (if creating a report) or your research question (if you are creating new understanding or reaching a conclusion) Click here to view a great little video on mapping your research question.
2. Conduct preliminary research. Be familiar with terms associated with your topic. Are there sufficient resources available to you to meet your requirements? Be sure your topic is neither too broad nor too narrow.
3. Identify and locate resources. Use a variety of resources including print and digital. Databases are a great resource for research. Take advantage or primary resources including individuals who are available for interviews.
4. Evaluate your sources. Is your source an authoritative source and credible? Is it a primary or secondary source? Is the author of your article an expert in his or her field or are they just espousing an opinion? Is the source reliable and unbiased? You want to be particularly wary of online resources - they can be misleading, often intentionally. When using web resources be aware of domains and urls. How savvy are you when it comes to fake news and information? To find out, click here to play factitious.
5. Gather information and organize. Take notes. Notecards with minimal information per card are an option. This will allow you more flexibility when organizing information. Be sure your information is well balanced - you don't want too little or too much information on any one aspect of your topic or from one source. Copying and pasting information during the note-taking process decreases the likelihood that your paper will reflect your voice while increasing the chance that you will unconsciously create a plagiarism situation. Create a detailed outline. Once you have a good outline, your paper will write itself - figuratively, not literally.
6. Create a rough draft. Review it for cohesiveness. Does it satisfy your requirements and will the reader understand your position and points? If the answer to any of these is no, now is the time to make changes.
7. Write your final paper. Once you are satisfied, complete your paper and check it thoroughly, proofreading carefully. Be sure your citations are correctly formatted and complete. Proofread again. Turn it in on time and know you did a great job!