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Basic Steps in the Research Process
This list of steps is a guideline for you to use. Not everyone will do these steps in the same order and you may go back and forth between them.
Click on the colored words to learn how to do that step.
1. Select a general topic that interests you in some way.
2. List key words to help you look up information about the topic.
3. Go to an encyclopedia, or other reference source, to get an overview of the topic.
4. Make source cards for whatever sources you will use for information.
5. Using the general overview, begin to focus the topic into something you can cover well.
6. Write a statement of purpose about the focused topic.
7. Brainstorm questions about the focused topic.
8. Group questions under similar headings.
9. Add any new questions you can think of under those headings.
10. Repeat step 2, listing more key words from your newly focused topic and questions.
11. Make a list of possible sources that can answer your questions. Identify the best sources to use.
12. Find the sources in the library, on the computer, etc. Make a source card for each one you use.
13. Begin making notecards. Use your brain stormed questions to guide your note taking.
14. Change your statement of purpose into a draft thesis statement.
Read each section before you begin.
Introduction to our Research Guide
Basic Steps in the Research Process
Click on a step to find out how to do it.
Read each section.
Write a paragraph on that describes what needs to be done in each step and answer the Questions your blog.
1.1 Define the problem
1.2 Identify the information requirements of the problem
- Cell/Smart Phones for Learning
- E-Book Readers vs. Text Books
- Portable Devices (eBooks, iPad, notebooks, iPods, etc.) for Learning
Step 2 - Information Seeking Strategies
2.1 Determine the range of possible sources
2.2 Evaluate the different possible sources to determine priorities
- What are all the possible sources to check?
- What are the best sources of information for this task?
3.1 Locate sources
3.2 Find information within the sources
15. Make an outline of your headings. If you are ready to print your outline, try the Outline Maker
16. Refocus your thesis statement if necessary.
17. Write the body of your paper from your notes.
18. Cite any necessary information with parenthetical citations.
19. Write your introduction and conclusion.
20. Write your Works Cited (it is similar to a bibliography).
21. Create a title page.
22. Evaluate your work.
23. Turn in your paper on time.
When you're finished, celebrate!
- Where can I find these sources?
- Where can I find the information in the source?
4.1 Engage (read, hear, view, touch) the information in the source
4.3 Extract information from a source
- What information do I expect to find in this source?
- What information from the source is useful?
Step 5 - Synthesis: Putting it all together
5.1 Organize information from multiple sources
5.2 Create a product or performance
- How will I organize my information?
- How should I present my information?
6.1 Judge the product or performance
6.2 Judge the information-solving process
- Did I do what was required?
- Did I complete each of the Big6 Stages efficiently?
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