How do you assess a new mechanics research project?

1 Identify the gap

The first step to assess a new mechanics research project is to identify the gap in the existing knowledge or practice that your project aims to fill. You need to review the literature, consult the experts, and analyze the current challenges and limitations in your field of interest. You should be able to clearly state the research question, the hypothesis, and the objectives of your project. You should also consider the novelty, originality, and significance of your project. How does it differ from or improve upon the previous or ongoing work? How does it contribute to the advancement of mechanics or its applications?

2 Define the scope

The second step to assess a new mechanics research project is to define the scope of your project. You need to determine the boundaries, assumptions, and constraints of your project. You should be realistic and specific about what you can and cannot do within the given time, budget, and resources. You should also identify the key variables, parameters, and factors that affect your project. You should be able to justify your choices and explain how they relate to your research question and objectives.

3 Choose the method

The third step to assess a new mechanics research project is to choose the method that best suits your project. You need to decide how you will collect, analyze, and interpret the data or evidence that will answer your research question and test your hypothesis. You should consider the advantages and disadvantages of different methods, such as experiments, simulations, models, surveys, or case studies. You should also evaluate the validity, reliability, and accuracy of your method. How will you ensure the quality and consistency of your data or results? How will you address the potential sources of error or bias?

4 Plan the timeline

The fourth step to assess a new mechanics research project is to plan the timeline of your project. You need to estimate how long each stage of your project will take, from literature review to data collection to data analysis to report writing. You should also set the milestones, deliverables, and deadlines for your project. You should be realistic and flexible about your schedule and account for possible delays or contingencies. You should also monitor and update your progress regularly and communicate with your supervisor or collaborators.

5 Assess the risks

The fifth step to assess a new mechanics research project is to assess the risks that may affect your project. You need to identify the potential challenges, difficulties, or uncertainties that may arise during your project. You should also evaluate the likelihood and impact of each risk and how they may affect your objectives, scope, method, or timeline. You should also develop strategies to mitigate, avoid, or manage each risk. How will you overcome or cope with the problems that may occur? How will you ensure the safety and ethics of your project?

6 Communicate the value

The final step to assess a new mechanics research project is to communicate the value of your project. You need to articulate the purpose, significance, and implications of your project to your target audience, such as your supervisor, peers, reviewers, or funders. You should also demonstrate the feasibility, relevance, and impact of your project using clear, concise, and convincing language. You should also anticipate and address the possible questions, feedback, or criticism that your project may receive. How will you persuade or inform others about the importance and benefits of your project?

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?