What is the first step in developing a research paper

Focusing on one step at a time will help you develop a thoughtful, informative, well-supported research paper. Your first step is to choose a topic and then to develop research questions, a working thesis, and a written research proposal. Set aside adequate time for this part of the process.

To choose a topic.
If not that then developing questions and if not that creating a thesis statement.
Hope this helps.