It's important to understand the process of research before you drive right in. Knowing the different steps, and how to move back and forth between them, will help you do better and more efficient research!
The research process is messy, no doubt about it.
Step 1: Identify your topic. Narrow it down if necessary.
Step 2: Identify your primary keywords.
Step 3: Start searching in library databases. Don't forget to use the tools provided, like limiters!
Step 4: When you find a few sources you think may be useful, stop and review them. Discard any aren't helpful and save the ones that are.
Step 5: Do you have enough sources to start writing your paper?
YES: Start writing and make sure to cite!
NO: Return to Step 2 and 3 as necessary until you have enough information to start writing.
PROTIP: Sometimes you may start writing and realize you need more information. That's OK! Go back to Step 2 and continue the research process!
(Image CC-BY-SA, Susanna Smith: Georgia Highlands College Library, 2021)