U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service Organize
research tasks in an efficient and logical fashion. Decide what
you need to know and where you can find it. Make a list of the
questions you must answer. Make a list of specific tasks, noting
where you need to go, to whom you need to speak, and what you
expect to find, and the order in which you intend to proceed.
Determine your possibilities and limitations. You can save
yourself time and effort by defining the parameters of your
project in advance. You can alter, discard, or add questions to
tasks as you proceed. Once you know exactly what you need to
find, and have a good idea where to find it, you are well on
your way to accomplishing your goal. Remember that the property
itself is a primary source of information. Walk through the
property and gather information that describes it, noting
distinctive features and obvious alterations and changes.
Examine all buildings and structures, inside as well as out.
Examine the grounds, noting any signs