[notaddicted]

1. If you have a chance to work with a professor, my suggestion is to choose something in his/her area of expertise, and try to consult every or every other week if possible.

2. Any self-directed research as an undergrad will probably turn into a literature review. Make sure to hit the books hard right at the outset, and try to organize the information so you can use it.

3. Look for interesting work around your school or other schools especially if you have contacts. Anyone who just finished an interesting project will undoubtedly have educated ideas about how it could be improved, or some ideas for similar work.