Research Process Guide

Before you start the research process, carefully read over your assignment and make sure you understand the following:

• what type of assignment it is (review of the literature, compare/contrast, statement of opinion, etc.)
• how many and what kinds of resources you need to use (books, journal articles, etc.)
• if the topic is already assigned or if you get to pick the topic
• style of paper (APA, MLA, etc.)

So you have a research paper to write but it's been a while since you've written one.  Don't stress!  This guide is meant to help take you through the research process step-by-step.  Click on each of the tabs above for more information on each step of the process.

• Step 1: Develop a Topic
• Step 2: Gather Information
• Step 3: Evaluate Your Sources
• Step 4: Writing
• Step 5: Review and Revise 

Although you generally complete steps in this order, it is okay to return to a previous step or work on multiple steps at the same time.  Every writer is different! 

Also be sure to check out the library's online tutorial An Introduction to the Research Process on our Academic Tools for the Research Process Library website. This online tutorial will present you with a quiz at the end and a certificate of completion after passing.  

These handouts will give you an overview of the research process and some tips on how to create a successful research paper. They can easily be printed so that you can refer to them many times during the research process.