Skip to Main Content

Research Process Tutorial

Research is a challenging process

Research is the process of gathering information that can serve as evidence to back up your statements. Good research may not confirm what you think you know about your topic when you start out.  As you begin your studies and research papers, note that research will require time to complete. Your experience with the steps outlined below may differ in order and might even repeat as you complete your research, papers, and projects. 

Use library resources such as the Online Catalog and library databases to conduct background research, refine your topic, and search for sources. If you have any questions, please be sure to use the Ask-a-Librarian Chat. 

Check out the Research Process Infographic below. 

 

The Research Paper Process

  • Choose a Topic
    • Understand your assignment parameters, requirements, and due dates
  • Conduct Background Research
    • Search for news articles, top hits on Google, and encyclopedia articles.
  • Refine your Topic
    • Narrow down what you want to investigate. Think about the who, what, when, where, and why for your topic.
  • Create a Research Question
    • Come up with a tentative question you want to answer in your project.
  • Develop a Search Strategy
    • Select your resources and develop your keywords
  • Search
    • Conduct multiple searches in relevant resources
  • Evaluate your Results and Sources
    • Use the CRAAP model: currency, relevancy, authority, accuracy, and purpose
  • Adjust and/or Repeat your Search
    • Try different keywords, resources, and strategies depending on your needs
  • Start Writing
    • Incorporate your sources into your writing from the beginning
  • Review and Re-Search
    • Fill in the holes, explore new areas of interest, dig deeper, etc.
  • Cite, Review, and Edit
    • Put the final touches on your project

 

Connect with the Library on Social Media

👍🏼🩷 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook 🩷👍🏼

Click or scan the QR codes below