1. You should identify key words that relate to your topic & question. This will help you in your search. What has not been researched yet? Or what could be researched again using a different population? What is the research problem?
2. General overview of the literature: What does the existing literature and research say about your research topic or question?
3. Based on the gap you find in the literature, what is/are your research questions, AIMS, OR what is/are your research and null hypothesis? This should be a unique query that has not yet been researched or research in the way you desire.
4. What relevance does this topic have to your field—counseling or higher education or education? (This is both a personal reflection and one that you should use peer reviewed articles.)
5. Are there any ethical or cultural considerations?
6. What is the study design including any measures used, method of data analysis, and what are the benefits of their proposed research?
7. Which journal would you submit your research findings to and give justification why your research fits this journal’s focus? (Review journals per your field and topic. Select at least one. Be sure to note the journals requirements for submission.)