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Beyond the Basics: The Research Process at UCBA

Self-paced guide introducing the process of doing research.

Your Team of Experts

Getting started on a research assignment or project can sometimes be confusing and/or overwhelming. Before starting, identify your team of experts and take time to make sure you understand the assignment or project and any guidelines or requirements. 

infographic of places to get help along with descriptions

Important Things to Note

Assignment Structure

  • What is the first step in the assignment?
  • Is the assignment in preparation for the next assignment in the course?
  • Has the professor provided examples (e.g. topic list, source) of what you need to do?
  • What is the format (e.g. essay, speech, video, presentation, report) of the assignment?
  • Is there anything about the assignment that you don't understand?
  • When is the assignment due?

Topics 

  • Is the topic assigned by your professor or do you choose it? 
  • Does your professor need to approve the topic?
  • Do you need to schedule a meeting to discuss the proposed topic with your professor?
  • Does the topic need to be in a specific form (e.g. research question, thesis statement)?

Sources & Citing

  • Do you need to use a specific number of sources?
  • Do you need to use a specific type of source (e.g. scholarly journal article)?
  • What style (e.g. APA, MLA) do you need to use to cite your sources?

UCBA Academic Support Labs

UC Blue Ash College has a variety of academic support labs designed to help students succeed. Their web pages include contact information, tutoring hours, and how to schedule an appointment. 

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