Library: Basic Research Process: Selecting a Topic

Selecting a Topic: First Step

First: make sure you thoroughly understand the assignment. Ask yourself:

Have I been assigned a topic, or can I pick my own?
How long must the paper or presentation be?
How old can the supporting information be?
Are there specific sources I must use?
When is the assignment due?

-- Be sure to consult your instructor If you have any questions.

"Picking Your Topic Is Research!"

This video from NCSU shows what goes into picking a topic.

Selecting a Topic: If You Are Stuck

Select a general topic or idea you will be interested in, and write about it engagingly for your readers.

If you are stuck for ideas to develop, browse various sources for inspiration:

Browse your textbook
Browse encyclopedias and general reference works
Browse through lecture notes
Brainstorm with your professors, classmates, and/or librarians

As you browse and brainstorm, write down interesting key words and concepts. These words will likely become search terms in your research. They help develop your idea into a focused topic and use research sources effectively.

After finding an initial idea, do background research to learn more about the subject area. This helps you explore the topic and develop the research question you will explore.