The following steps are involved in the process of historical research:

(i) The identification and delineation of the research theme.

(ii) The collection of evidence or data.

(iii) The validation of historical data, firstly in terms of the authenticity of the source and then the validation of its contents, involving external and internal criticism of data.

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(iv) The interpretation of the data leading to conclusions.

(v)The preparation of the research report. Hypothesis, its formulation and testing

Once the statement of the problem has been made and its terms have been operationally defined, the formulation and the testing of the hypothesis are the subsequent steps in planning a research project.