Conducting a Research Project STEPS FOR SUCCESSFULLY GATHERING INFORMATION

Define the Topic  Make sure the topic is well-defined and appropriate to your goal  Visualize and brainstorm the topic  Plan strategies to find a solution or conclusion to the topic you choose

Strategies for Finding Information  List the possible sources  Evaluate which sources are best fits to the research project  Prioritize the list of sources you want to use  Evaluate the information you find at each source based on:  Accuracy  Validity  Appropriateness  Is it unbiased?  Is it fact or opinion?  Is it backed by research?

Advanced Search Strategies  It’s okay to start with basic search engines and research tools at the library  Don’t limit your research to those tools  Investigate other online search tools and information sites  Explore and understand the strategies various search tools use to deliver their results  You may only get the tip of the iceberg with simple searches

Extract and Use Information  Once you determine a source is valid and useful, extract the information you need  Compare and contrast information gathered from different sources—do they agree or conflict?  Follow safe and responsible standards for gathering and using information

Organize and Present  Use technology tools such as Microsoft Office to organize and present your information  Use graphics, fonts, and special effects in presenting your information  Make sure the graphics and effects enhance rather than detract from your message