The superconducting properties of RuSr₂GdCu₂O₈ (Ru-1212) superconductor strongly depend on the processing conditions. In this report we have made an investigation on the influence of processing method and heat treatments on the superconducting properties, as well as normal state resistivity of RuSr₂GdCu₂O₈ (Ru-1212) compound. The samples were prepared using solid-state reaction of high purity oxides and carbonates of constituents cations through direct method, precursor method, and standard method used for the synthesis of Ru-1212 compounds. These samples were then subjected to different annealing treatments in different atmosphere (oxygen and air) for 120 h. They have been investigated by X-ray diffraction, dc resistivity and scanning electron microscopy. The normal state resistivity has been studied on the basis of various conduction mechanisms.