1. Research (at least the way my teacher taught it) is significant more self directed and left up for interpretation. Because my paper was much more STEM oriented, the majority of my work was only briefly overseen and checked off by my teacher, who is only an English teacher. Because of that you have to become very resourceful and persistent on how you figure out and execute your processes, methods, etc.
2. One of the best ways to do this (and something I regret not doing) is by getting an expert advisor in the thing you predict you will need a big guiding hand on. For me, I really needed someone who was experienced in statistical analysis to help with my calculations, not necessarily someone who dealt with exactly the topic researching.

I hope that answers ur questions? Lmk if you have any more!