STEP 1 Understand the Assignment Ask Yourself: What does your research require? • A description of the topic? • A history of the growth or development of the subject matter? • Biographical information? • Analysis of issues related to the topic? • Taking a stand on an issue and providing persuasive arguments? • Statistics, case studies, photos? • When is the assignment due? What types of resources and how many of each are you allowed to consult? • Books? • Journal articles? • Encyclopedias? • Internet Web sites? How are you supposed to cite your sources of information? Then Do This: • Read your assignment sheet and syllabus. • Make sure you know which format (“style”) you are expected to use to cite your research sources: MLA, APA, or any other. • Check with your instructor to make sure you are clear on what you are expected to do in your paper. Step 2 Select Your Topic

Introduction Understand the   Assignment   Select Your   Topic    Identify   Keywords and   Concepts of   Your Topic   Focus Your Research:   When To Use   Which   Resources   Find Books on   Your Topic    When You   Need   Articles   Search for Web  Sites About  Your  Topic   Evaluate Your   Sources    Cite Your    Sources      Important   Reminders   Research Paper   Checklist