Course work is an important part of your studies in many subjects, and will often involve independent research by you on a particular topic. To get the best marks you'll need to show not only that you have found out about the topic, but also that you have focussed on the relevant information, understood and analysed it. Your teachers will give you specific advice relating to the subject, but here are some general steps to take:
Remind yourself what you know already, from lessons, reading and general knowledge. Jot down keywords and ideas in a mindmap or set yourself the alphabet challenge: can you think of a relevant word beginning with each letter of the alphabet?
Read a general text (textbook chapter, Wikipedia) about your focus area and try to fill in some gaps in your existing knowledge. At the same time think about the questions that you are asking yourself as you read: what interests you, what don't you understand?
Focus on the particular question which will be the title of your course work or essay. Your teacher may have have given you this or you may have to choose from a shortlist or formulate your own question relating to an aspect of your subject. Your choice should reflect the general reading you have done, and the questions which arose from it.
Source information directly relevant to the question. Read critically.
Note only the points that add to your knowledge and understanding of the subject and enable you to answer the question. Use whatever note-taking strategy suits you: concept maps, diagrams, annotation, colour-coding.
Record the sources used; a Word document, a notebook page or Google Notebook are all useful for this.
Review your notes: are you still focussed on your question? is some information irrelevant? are there still gaps to filled or more questions arising? Do you need input from your teacher?
Plan the finished product: what form will it be in? what audience is it for? how long should it be?
Edit your draft. Make sure it is in your own words and that you have shown that you understand the points you are making.
Remember to list references and bibliography.
Congratulations. You have completed a top-quality piece of work!
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