Crafting a successful research paper requires both organization and time management. Research is not a one-step task—it’s a process that unfolds in stages, and each stage deserves time and attention. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to help you plan effectively:
Brainstorming:
Explore and generate ideas related to your topic
Consider different angles, perspectives, or current issues
Start forming potential research questions
Researching and taking notes:
use reliable sources such as books, scholarly articles, and reputable websites
take notes, highlighting key information and source details
Making an outline:
Organize your ideas in a logical order
Group related points together
Plan how your main ideas will be supported by evidence
Writing
Start with a draft—don’t worry about perfection
Focus on developing your argument or answering your research question
Revising and polishing
Review for clarity, grammar, and structure
Make sure your ideas flow smoothly
Double-check your citations and formatting
By following this research planning guide, you’ll be better prepared to manage your time, approach your work with confidence, and produce a stronger, more effective paper.
1. What is your Prompt or an Area of Interest?
Ex.) Universal Healthcare
2. Write Down What you Think or Want to Know about the Topic
Ex.) I think the United States should have universal healthcare coverage.
What factors prevent the U.S. from establishing universal healthcare?
3. Consider the Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How