There are seven steps to effective fundraising: Prospect, Qualify, Ask, Commit, Thank You, Follow Up, Upgrade. An easy mnemonic is the off-color "P-quack the f*** up". Below are links to each section

Combined

Prospecting - Finding Donors

Qualifying - Deciding whom to prioritize

Asking

Commitments - Making Sure Donors Follow Through

Thank You - Acknowledging Generosity

Follow up - Keep Donors Excited

Upgrade - Turn Small Gifts into Big Gifts into Raises