Decide what you desire to accomplish through your research. In order to develop focus and action, you must have a clear idea of what you want to do. For example, do you want to write an economic or historical report or do you want to conduct a laboratory experiment in order to determine the results of a particular study? Knowing exactly what you need to accomplish sets the focus and action for your project.
Eliminate all potential distractions. Developing focus and action in research requires getting rid of anything that will distract you from your project, including noise, smart phones, TV and radio, frequent email checking as well as constant Internet browsing. You should dedicate your computer to research only. Also, neatly organize your table or desk, whether you are at home or the library. Clutter can distract by leading to confusion and overwhelm you.
Write out a comprehensive plan for your research and action, including a mission statement, what you will do and what methods you will use. For instance, if you are doing a research paper, you must have an idea of the sources of information you want to collect as well as where to locate that information. You must also know how you are going to prepare your bibliography and note cards, how you are going to create the outline and write the rough draft. For a lab report, you must know what special group you are studying as well as the outcome you expect.
Use self-discipline to get back on track if you divert. Many times during the course of your research you may lose focus and action, sometimes out of temporary loss of enthusiasm for the project or the desire for some other form of entertainment such as texting or eating junk food. Nevertheless, you must develop a sense of urgency regarding the project. Set a timeline for various phases of the project as well as a completion date. By doing this, you can strengthen your focus and action.
Arrange time for small breaks but don't lose focus. Having lunch, making a pleasant phone call to your spouse, or taking a quiet walk can help refresh your mind as well as help you appreciate the progress you have made. Otherwise, you can become mentally burned out.