Make a formal plan for your research project, incorporating any milestones dictated by your department, such as interim reports and final submission dates. Discuss your plan with your supervisor and incorporate his or her comments. Refer back to the plan frequently during your project, to see how well you are meeting your deadlines.

Understanding and incorporating project milestones are a crucial part of research project planning. Milestones act as markers along the timeline of your project, each one representing a significant achievement or phase in your research. For instance, a milestone could be the completion of data collection, a progress presentation, or the submission of a draft paper.

To effectively manage these milestones, start by listing each one as dictated by your department, with clear deadlines. This will serve as your project's backbone. Prioritize tasks based on their urgency and relevance to upcoming milestones, ensuring that you allocate sufficient time for each bit of work. By breaking down your project into smaller, manageable pieces, tracking progress becomes much more straightforward, and the risk of becoming overwhelmed is lessened.

Regularly checking against outlined milestones not only helps maintain your timeline but also provides a sense of accomplishment, keeping motivation levels high. If a milestone is missed, it acts as a signal to reassess the plan and make necessary adjustments, ensuring the project remains on track.

The process of research plan development is like mapping out a journey; it outlines the route you intend to take to reach your destination - in this case, the successful completion of your research project. The development of a research plan includes setting objectives, establishing methods, predicting challenges, and designating resources.

In mapping out your plan, integrate not only the milestones but also the smaller steps required to reach them. Break down complex activities into more manageable tasks, which will help you stay organized and focused. It’s essential to be realistic about the time each task will take and to build in some flexibility for unforeseen issues. A well-constructed plan leaves room for such contingencies and avoids overscheduling, reducing stress and increasing your chances of success.

When drafting your plan, also consider potential resources you may need, such as equipment, software, assistance from peers, or access to specific data. Cover all phases, from literature review to data analysis, and ensure your plan meets departmental requirements. This comprehensive approach preempts problems and provides a clear picture of your project’s trajectory.

Supervisor collaboration is an integral part of the research process, offering guidance and expertise that can significantly enhance your project's quality. When you bring a draft of your research plan to a meeting with your supervisor, approach it with an open mindset. Be ready to absorb their insights and prepared to ask clarifying questions to fully understand their perspective.

It's vital to engage in active listening; your supervisor’s experience can help you avoid common pitfalls and make your research more productive. They may offer suggestions about structuring your plan, time management, or even steer you towards valuable resources. After the discussion, carefully incorporate their feedback into your research plan. Remember that this is a collaborative process, and frequent communication can ensure that your project benefits from ongoing support and advice.

Keep in mind that a supervisor’s role is not to dictate every step of your research but to challenge and support you. A good working relationship is built on mutual respect and regular engagement, which results in a more refined approach to your research project. Their feedback is not just about correcting course but also about enriching your perspective and equipping you with the tools to conduct robust research.