How do I plan a research strategy?

Choose a topic: Choose a topic which interests you. You will do your best work if the topic can keep your interest for the length of the project. Check your topic ideas with your instructor to be sure they fit within the scope of the course.
Establish context: Use your course textbook to read briefly about your topic. Consult subject specific encyclopedias and dictionaries to establish background for your project. Start a list of important words and phrases. These will help later when you begin to use the computer for your research.
Write down key statements that help define your topic: A good thesis statement will help you define the direction of your research. Writing down key statements now will help you clearly state your topic and establish a point of view. Key statements will also help you to determine what type of information you need.
Refine your idea after you gather your research: Decide if your topic is manageable. At this point you may need to revise your original idea. Decide if your concept can be treated adequately given the length of the project and the time you have to finish it. The amount of readily available literature may also affect the scope of your project. Your instructor and subject librarians can help you refine your ideas and plan a good research strategy.