Starting a new historical research project is both exciting and overwhelming. If you have little experience doing research, try thinking of yourself as a detective and start gradually by investigating one lead at a time. Each step will become easier and more interesting as you get deeper into finding evidence for your case. Where to Start? • Start with a topic and a list of questions you want answered. What's Next? • Gain a general understanding of the topic. • Refine your questions to discover clues. • Figure out what kind of records will be the most help to you. • Follow the record evidence where it leads you. • Compare the evidence with other proven information. Now What? • Continue the cycle of questioning, evidence gathering, and looking at new records. • Develop answers to your initial questions. • Present your findings in an interesting and accurate way.