Ask geographic questions.  Good geographic questions will help to drive research. 

• "Why is there drought in this region while that region is flooded?”
• "What is the result of refugees moving from this land across the border to that place?" 

Acquire geographic resources. Examine GIS, scholarly journals, books, and the internet related to your topic.

Consider these areas when you are researching:  geography, time, and the subject.

• What's the geographic focus of your research?
• What period of time do you need for your data?
• What specific subjects or topics will you be researching? 

Explore geographic data. Research maps, tables, and charts, in addition to periodicals on your topic.

•  Maps allow one to see patterns,  and integrate different kinds of data including pictures (aerial photos & satellite images) and features such as roads, rivers, mountains, etc.  GIS is very useful in this phase.
• Do you need to modify or refine your question(s)?

Analyze geographic information.  Look for relationships and patterns in information.

• Can you make any predictions based on your analysis?
• Can you calculate about one variable affecting another?
• What conclusions can you make?

Act upon geographic knowledge.  Good citizens share their geographic knowledge with others.

• Make a presentation to school or community leaders
• Encourage business groups or legislature to make a policy change.