By @Dante Dominguez

First things first...

Writing a research must not be something mystical and/or overly complicated. With proper education and knowledge, planning, designing and completing a research should not be different from completing any other academic assignment.

The main difference between a research and other types of assignments is the depth of knowledge and commitment it requires. Nevertheless, there are certain steps that you can follow to ensure a successful researching experience and subsequent presentation, defense, and (perhaps, even) publication.

Here, you will find what I consider the basic elements that you must consider when starting your research.

Ask yourself:

• What are the interests and abilities that you may capitalize (you already have and can use) during your research project?
• Does your research project have a clear objective?
• Do you know what research methods/techniques you will use?
• Do you have the resources?
• Do you have the abilities?
• Do you have relevant experience in your research field?
• Can you justify why your research should be of importance for someone else?
• Who will consider it important?