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* Research Basics *

College-level research can be difficult, even for students who have previously done research. This guide is a great starting point for learning about how to successfully conduct literature-based research, such as secondary research or a literature review.

A Brief Summary of the Research Process

  1. Choose a Topic
  • Consider your interests and assignment requirements to find a topic that you are passionate about and that meets the criteria set by your instructor.
  • Ensure the topic is neither too broad nor too narrow. A well-defined topic will allow you to focus your research and delve deeply into specific aspects, rather than being overwhelmed by too much information or struggling to find enough material.
  1. Conduct Preliminary Research
    • This step is also referred to as a literature review or secondary research.
    • Use academic databases like JSTOR, Google Scholar, and your university’s library resources to find scholarly articles and papers on your topic.
    • Consult library resources, including scholarly books, journals, and other academic publications, to gain a comprehensive understanding of your subject.
    • Take notes and keep track of sources as you go. This will help you organize your thoughts and make it easier to cite sources later in your paper.
  2. Develop a Research Question or Thesis Statement
  • Your thesis should be specific, arguable, and supported by evidence. It serves as the central argument of your paper and guides your research and writing.
  • A research question should be clear, focused, and answerable within the scope of your paper. It sets the direction for your research and helps you stay on track.
  1. Create an Outline
    • Organize your main points and supporting evidence in a logical structure. An outline helps you see the overall flow of your argument and ensures that your paper has a clear and coherent structure.
    • Ensure a logical flow of ideas, with each section building on the previous one and leading naturally to the next.
  2. Gather and Evaluate Sources
  • Use peer-reviewed journals, academic books, and reputable websites to gather information. These sources are more likely to be reliable and credible.
  • Critically assess the credibility and relevance of each source. Look for the author’s qualifications, the publication date, and the evidence presented to ensure that you are using high-quality sources in your paper.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your academic writing is well-researched, well-organized, and highly effective in conveying your ideas.

Learn More

If you want to learn more about the research process, use the tabs at the left to navigate this guide. You can also refer to our guides on specific research topics. Those are listed on the last tab of this guide.