Things to keep in mind for successful research:

• Write down your ideas as much as possible.
• While doing research ask yourself if you are in line with your original idea. If you're not, that's fine, just make sure to know how your idea has shifted.
• Document your research: drawings, notes in your notebook or sketchbook, sketches, small tests in different media.
• investigate how other artists have dealt with similar interests to yours.
• Question the validity of your project, don't settle for the first results. You should be able to show several tests, rough drafts, sketches before arriving at your final project.
• Create an archive of your research: this could be a blog, or notes that you keep in your computer. Organize it so that you may be able to access it as needed.