Before you get started, you need to know the basics of your assignment. Be certain you know the answers to the following questions before you begin your research.

Do you really understand your assignment? If not:

• Email your instructor with any questions
• Review instructions
• Make time to visit teacher
• Is there a rubric you can review before writing?
• What are the length requirements?
• Should it be double-spaced?
• How many sources must I have'?
• Does the instructor require a specific format other than parenthetical documentation?
• Does your paper need a thesis, or is it strictly informational?
• Do you need to type in a specific font and font size?
• What are the due dates?

Knowing the answers to these questions will focus your efforts and prevent unpleasant surprises later in the research process.