Library

Ten Easy Steps to a Great Research Project

1. Choose your topic.

• What are you interested in learning about?
  
• What questions do you have about this topic?
  
• Your topic should be big enough to encompass several questions.
  
• Plan your time wisely. Use the Assignment Calculator from the University of Minnesota to design a schedule for your project.

2. Gather your resources.

• Use a variety of resources.
  
• Start with an encyclopedia (print or online) for basic information.
  
• Use the online catalog to find books in the Pike Library.
  
• Search our Subscription Databases to find articles in magazines, journals, and newspapers.
  
• Choose a search engine or directory depending on your need.
  
• Always evaluate your sources!
  

3. Identify key words and related terms.

• Use smart searching strategies.
• What key words will you use as you search?
  
• Write down important words and phrases to look for in tables of contents and indexes.
  
• Think of related terms to use - "shelter" is related to "homes."
  
• Look for the words "see also" or "related topics" when reading.

4. Take notes.

• There are many different ways to record important information about your topic.
  
• Your teacher might require a specific format. (For basic information see the section on Note-taking.)

5. Organize your information.

• How do you want to present your information?
  
• It's best to put related areas of your topic together - like the childhood of a famous artist.
  
• Keep in mind what will make sense to your audience.
  
• A concept map or an outline can help you organize.
  
• Making a poster or brochure? Mark off where these areas will go on a blank piece of paper.
  
• If you're creating a PowerPoint presentation, use the outline function to plan the order of your slides.

6. Start writing.

• Using your notes and your outline as a guide, begin writing.
  
• Remember to write in organized paragraphs with a clear topic sentence.
• Click here for help in crafting a paragraph.
  

7. Add any artwork or graphics.

• Pictures, maps, and other images can make a project come to life.
• Choose artwork that helps your audience understand the topic and that illustrates your writing.
  
• Keep track of where you get your images for your bibliography.
  

8. Create your bibliography.

• Your bibliography is a list of all the sources you used for your project.
• There are many ways to record this information. Your teacher may require a certain format.
  
• Citing Sources will provide you with more details.

9. Check your work.

• Proofread all parts of your project, including your bibliography.
  
• If you're giving an oral presentation, practice it out loud.

10. You're done!