Steps of the research process

1. Research is a Journey
We take it one step at a time!

2. Step 1:
Figure out your destination.
• Think about what type of information you’re looking for
– What’s your research question?
– What types of keywords might help you find answers?

3. Step 2:
Map your route
• Think about what types of sources will have the answers
you’re looking for
– Databases—which ones?
– Primary vs. secondary sources
– Websites
– Newspaper/magazine
• Think about what search strategies you’ll use for different
sources

4. Step 3:
Go! Adventure! Find sources!
• Gather your sources (online and print) that will help you
answer your questions
• Search within the sources to find relevant
articles/chapters/etc.
– Not having luck? Remember to try different keyword and
advanced search strategies
• Ask your teacher/librarian for help if you need it

5. Step 4:
You’re there! Now look around
• Read, listen to, view your sources
• Take notes on relevant information
– Quotes
– Paraphrasing
• Use citations to keep track of where you’re getting information
from
– Citations are your “you are here” markers. Keep track so you can find
again

6. Step 5:
Share your trip and what you learned!
• Organize and synthesize information from multiple sources
– Make sure you’ve answered your research question
• Present the information
• Create in-text citations and a Works Cited page so other
people can retrace your steps

7. Step 6:
Reflect on your journey and destination
• How was the journey?
– Did you get lost?
– Which parts were most difficult?
– Which parts were easy?
– Did you ask for help when you needed it?
• How was the destination?
– Did you present your trip (paper/PowerPoint/etc.) in a way that
reflects your hard work?

8. Remember!
At any point in your journey
it’s okay to stop and ask for
directions. We all get a little
lost sometimes!