Whether the end goal is an essay, a speech, or a presentation, the entire process to finalize that end goal takes a series of steps:
Step 1: Decide on subject and narrow to a topic
Step 2: Gather and evaluate information for the topic
Step 3: Create a working thesis and continue to find and evaluate information
Step 4: Gather information from sources and take necessary steps to avoid plagiarism
Step 5: Write an outline and/or draft of final product integrating and citing research
Step 6: Revise and edit work…keep finding and evaluating information, if necessary
Although these steps are provided in an organized way, as you learn more about your topic, you may restart the process based on new information or need to re-visit a particular step.
Here are helpful links describing the research process.
Here are helpful links to glossaries of research & writing terms: