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ENGL 201: English Composition II

The Research Process

 

The research process shown as eight circles in rainbow colors with matching colored arrows pointing from one circle to the next circle. Black arrows indicate where one may need to return to a previous step. The circles say, in order: define the topic; narrow the topic; preliminary research; develop a working thesis statement; select sources and research; evaluate sources; writing and revision; and cite sources. Black arrows indicate returning from preliminary research to narrow topic; from evaluate sources to select sources and research; and from writing and revision to select sources and research.

Your Research Plan

Step 1: Define Topic
Clarify what you're trying to achieve or find out (narrow topic, thesis statement).

Step 2: Identify Objectives
Think about research objectives. What is your end goal? How will you get there? What sources could provide the information you need?
Helps focus your scope to keep you on the path.

Step 3: Choose the Right Research Method
What methods you use will depend on your topic and goals.

  1. Understand the assignment and select topic
  2. Find background information in reference resources/do a literature review
  3. Use catalogs to find books, databases to find articles
  4. Evaluate what you find, review progress

Step 4: Start searching!