A research project is a research that a student initiates and conducts to showcase an understanding of subjects they have been learning at the University for grading and to prepare them for future work. A research project that produces excellent results also contributes to knowledge in the field of research.

A research project, however, is not a simple assignment and it requires much preparation to generate the best outcomes.

Plan the research project

Early and comprehensive planning is essential because you have time to determine where is research is likely to lead and make necessary changes to accommodate changes as the research progresses. From the onset of your research, you should plan your research route, how to reach your desired outcome.

Find a suitable supervisor

If you have the choice to pick your research advisor, pick someone who you can relate well. Float the idea on the scope of your project to the supervisor so that you work together from the beginning. When you work together from the beginning, the research journey will be comfortable for you and the supervisor will know where to guide you.

Choose the appropriate topic

A topic determines the way your project will turn out. You should pick a topic you find interesting, and on something, you are passionate to investigate. You may get recommendations from faculty and classmates, but you should always focus on your area of interest. You can even take a few weeks but ensure that you decided on a topic that you will find interesting. It will be frustrating if you research on something that does not excite you.

Ask what you do not know

Do not feel shy about anything that you do not how you can approach it. The supervisor can help you if you communicate your weaknesses and challenges. Take advantage of the discussion with your advisor to ask many questions as necessary.

Prepare a timeline for your project.

A project timeline dictates the way and time for every step of your research project. You should strictly follow it to always stay on track. Although you can adjust the date, it is essential to set the timeline for the first week, state and achieve targets throughout the research project’s duration. You should further breakdown you schedule to manageable weekly targets. Ensure that you consult with your supervisor to determine if the targets are realistic to avoid the risk of working on a timeline that becomes overwhelming in the way.

Get the most relevant materials from various sources according to nature and extent of parameters for your research project. Select the most appropriate research methods to get information and materials from various sources including:

• Surveys
• Interviews
• Experiments
• Databases
• Websites

Evaluate the research sources well to ensure that they have accurate facts. Take notes as you read and record sources as well as authors for citation purpose.

Write you research project draft

Write the most important information that supports your topic beginning with a thesis statement to give the reader a preview of what is the other sections of the paper.

You should also make brief comments on your project and background information in the introduction. It should not exceed two pages. Lay down the bulk of information supporting your thesis statement in the body of the manuscript. Break down the body into smaller sections to simplify reading. Write on and on until till you document all the necessary information until you finalize then make amends later. It is simpler than interrupting your draft work unless you realize that there are derailing mistakes. It is wise to regularly consult your supervisor for confirmation on whether you are on the right track. Remember to write about the result of your research and conclusions at the end. Close the paper with a list of references.

When you complete writing, take a break for some time and revise when your mind is fresh. When you complete this step, hand the draft to your supervisor for comments on whether the draft requires amendments or is ready for submission in the state.