Understanding Research

Research process
Select a topic
Refine a topic
Identify objectives Choose approach
Explore a topic
Plan a search
Evaluate info

Finding Books

Finding Articles

How Do I Select a Topic?

Begin by considering something that interests you! What have you read or heard in the news lately that has peaked your interest? Or is there something you'd like to learn more about? Do you have a strong opinion about anything happening in your personal life, your local area, nationally, or internationally?

Be sure to avoid topics that have been overly written about by others. Explore a new approach, perspective, idea, issue, event, or trend. Research is about discovery, new conclusions, and new solutions.

Consider topics that allow you to:

• Inform AND bring insight to a situation
• Argue a point
• Present a problem and its solution

Examples:

• Informing readers of new insights into a particular social issue
• Arguing the position that a particular court ruling was unconstitutional
• Presenting a solution to a particular pollution problem

Survivor Tip: Interest equals Motivation. If you are interested in your topic, you will be more motivated to do your research. And it is more likely that your research and your paper will turn out better.

Next: More Tips on How to Select Your Topic