Before you start searching databases it is a good idea to think about what you are looking for, where you think you will find it and how you will run your searches. The research process can help you plan your research and save you time later on.
The research process can be thought of as a cycle that has five stages: Planning, Identifying sources, Searching, Evaluating sources and Documenting your research. While this sounds like a linear process, in practice you may find yourself jumping in and out of various stages as you find new resources, question and develop arguments and use different databases. Searching databases can be an exercise in trial and error. As you research, note down key terms to use in subsequent searches and document as you go.
The research essay plan template available on the Legal Academic Skills, Success at MLS website, will help guide you through the research process.
Select the plus icons on the diagram below to learn about each stage.