Choose a Research Topic & Establish a Research Plan

Step 3: Initial Search Plan

The third step in developing a strong, successful research topic is to start an information search plan. Begin to make notes and keep lists. Include:

  • types of publications in which you expect to find information related to your specific topic;
  • subject areas in which you expect experts will be discussing your topic;
  • key questions that you have regarding the topic;
  • specific terms and phrases that are used by specialists studying your topic;
  • important names and dates related to the topic.

This list making will continue throughout your research and investigation. Having all that information at hand will make the searching and retrieval of research materials more efficient.