Research Guides

Use these helpful steps to complete your research project. Read each description, view the helpful videos or guides and ask your librarian for help. Remember to check back on this page, it is consistently been updated.

Step 1: Define your assignment.

  • Read the assignment's description and grading rubric. Ask your teacher to explain.
  • Do you understand the requirements of the assignment?
  • What will your project look like?
  • When is the due date?
  • What is the topic? Write your thesis statement.

Step 2: Identify information needed.

  • Broaden or narrow down your topic by formulating research questions.
  • Create a list of keywords, subjects, concepts, terms, events, places and people who shape your topic.
  • Don't know enough about your topic? Use Encyclopedias articles to help you fill in your background knowledge of your topic. Use Britannica School.

Step 3: Look for a variety of primary and secondary information sources.

Step 4: Jump into sources: read, hear, view & extract the most valuable information.

  • Use skimming and scanning to find information that addresses your topic.
  • Look for key words, pictures, read headlines and first & last paragraphs of articles to help find the “right” information.
  • Does the information answer your research the questions? Take notes, include citations.
  • How does it support your thesis? Find examples and summarize, paraphrase or quote.

Step 5: Correctly cite sources that are used in your research paper.

Step 6: Choose the format of your project.

Organize your research notes according to how you will share the information. Different formats require different types of organization.

  • If your format is a paper, begin by writing an outline.
  • Use the MLA Guide to format your title page, table of contents, and essay.
  • If you are producing a PowerPoint or multi-media presentation, categorize your main bullet points and images.
  • Present the information effectively by practicing and knowing your audience.

Step 7: Self Evaluation

Did you meet your objective? Take the opportunity to self check that you have all of the requirements.

  • Use the grading rubric or check list and make changes if necessary.
  • Look for accuracy, content, creativity and legibility.