Choose a topic that affects you, your workplace, or your community directly.

b. Develop a tree chart (See Figure 7.2 in this chapter) to help you ask the right questions.

c. Complete an audience and use profile. (See Chapter 2, “Develop and Audience and Use Profile.”)

d. Narrow your topic, checking with your instructor for approval and advice.

e. Make a working bibliography to ensure sufficient primary and secondary sources.

f. List what you already know about your topic.

g. Write an audience and purpose statement (see Chapter 2, “Primary and Secondary Purposes”) and submit it in a research proposal (see Chapter 22, “Research Proposals”).

h. Make a working outline.