Know what is expected of you from your university. While most PhD programs follow the same general path, every university has different expectations. For example, the project expectations of a biochemistry PhD candidate at the University of Washington will be far different than an American history doctoral candidate at Yale. Do not assume what is expected of you. Look into project expectations. If you have any questions, do not be afraid to ask.
Find the must-know subject that interests you within your area of study. Your PhD project will follow you throughout your time at university, making it important to find that area that will keep your interest throughout the interim.
Look into previous PhD projects within your department. While going through these, take notes on the specific topics and directions past students have taken with their projects. Gain ideas and motivation from these previous projects. While you will be unable to revisit these specific topics, you have the chance to gain perspective and use what has come before as a way to develop your own project into something completely different.
Find a new slant on your project topic. After you have looked into prior PhD projects, you should have an idea of where you wish to go. Before moving onto preparing your project proposal, understand where you want to go with your research. Map out a basic outline of your project, projecting where you want to go and how you want to get there before beginning your research.
Search out research opportunities for your project. Knowing where you plan to go with your research will allow you to put together your project proposal quickly. A good research base will help you find leads that will take you down new research avenues you may previously have been unaware of.
Prepare your research and ideas for your project proposal. Most PhD programs require candidates to give a project proposal amongst peers and professors. It is imperative that you know your subject, your research materials and the direction you wish your project to take during the PhD defense. Failing to have these under your belt may result in your project being declined.