A Researcher should thoroughly review literature related to his area. He/she will get an unexplored area/idea. Documenting all the literature reviewed safe which will guide you to complete the project which you intend to complete.
Research area/topic can be selected by you/your guide. Once it is selected, as i mentioned in the previous paragraph, review has to be done.
He has to search for the primary sources related to his study then secondary sources.
Then, sit with the materials and you can start doing your project