Brainstorm. Within the criteria of the project, write down as many ideas as you can think of in 15 minutes. If the topic is for a marketing class, you may write: "marketing mix for high-speed food processors", "advertising to children", and "how 'going green' helps sell products". Similarly, for a strategic management class, you may write, "Analysis of Keebler's strategic plan", or "writing an effective mission statement."
Determine available resources for research. Will you be able to find enough information on each? For example, Keebler may not publish its strategic plan, and marketing executives in the company may not be not be willing to divulge its details.
Gather sources. You will need to gather at least five credible sources to write a research paper about a possible business topic.
Study your sources. Determine the focus of your research paper by reading the sources. Jot notes while reading, brainstorming different angles to approach the topic. For now, don't rule anything out.
Review your notes. Delete those notes that do not seem to have potential. By now you have most likely determined your topic for business research.
Prepare an outline. You may already have one in mind. Solidify the outline on paper. Determine if you will need additional sources. For example, a sample outline for "Writing an Effective Mission Statement" might include bullet points for stakeholders, market position, and extent of specificity.
Develop drafts. Using your outline as a guide, begin your first draft. Don't be concerned with spelling or mechanics. Then prepare second draft and begin proofing and editing.
Finalize research paper.