How should I start an independent research project (coursework)?

When choosing your question, you must first identify that you are joining a historical debate. History is about interpretation, exploration and analysis not description. This is where you will pick up your marks. To begin, you should identify the main themes of the question. Start with a few introductory readings to help you do this. Do not concern yourself with detail at this stage, simply try to identify some main points. Once you have done this, it is time to start reading in depth. Remember, you are reading to analyze, discuss and, ultimately, to be controversial – so read critically. It is important to recognize here that not all historians agree, or are right. Where you situate yourself amongst competing arguments and how you justify this will be the key to top marks. Further advice can be offered on how to note take throughout the process, and how to structure and write your essay following this. Needless to say, if you read with the correct initial intent your plan should already be shaping up well.