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Getting started on Research

How to begin the Research Process?

The prospect of writing a research paper can be daunting for students. Here’s a FREE “Recipe for Research” GUIDE that can help. It simplifies the process by providing clear steps for students with links to examples and resources. Check it out!

Below are some useful steps to guide you through the research process.

Recipe-for-Research-Six-Step-Process-Guide.pdf

Step One: Identify & Develop Your Topic

1. What is the topic?
2. What do you know about this topic?
3. What do you wonder? Formulate some questions.
4. Create a keyword list to begin your searching.

Step Two: Preliminary Search

1. Conduct a preliminary search
2. Keep track of your sources in a document as you take notes so when it comes time to create citations you don't have to backtrack.

Databases

Step Three: Locate Materials

1. What print materials are available? Go to our Destiny Catalog
2. What library databases can assist you? Go to Digital Library
3. Google search (advanced search and scholar).
4. Evaluate your sources. Go to Evaluating Websites

Step Four: Create Your Outline

1. Use notes collected in Steps Two and Three to make the outline of your research paper.

Step Five: Write your Paper

1. Organizing the notes collected based on the flow of your outlines will keep you paper also organized.
2. Take a look at the graphics organizer provided in Writing and Citation Resources

Step Six: Cite

1. Consider using the links and resources provided in Writing and Citation Resources

Step Seven: Proofread & Revise

1. Have a peer or teacher proofread your research paper or project. Another set of eyes can help.

Step Eight: Publish & Share

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