How do I find a topic for a paper/project?
Answer
If you're Professor did not assign a topic, choose an interesting and relevant topic using the following tips and exercises.
Getting Started
A good research topic:
- Fits the assignment requirements
- Can be supported by available research materials
- Is interesting to you or something you want to learn more about
- Has a unique angle or explores a "hot" issue in your field
Can't think of a topic to research? Get ideas from:
- Your class textbook
- Notes from class discussion and lectures
- Current magazines and newspapers
- Encyclopedias, in print or online (such as Credo Reference)
- A "Hot Topic" database such as CQ Researcher or Opposing Viewpoints
- Your instructor or a librarian.
Brainstorming
Once you have selected a general topic, start to brainstorm its different angles and facets by asking research questions.
Ask:
- Who is the creator, audience, or end user?
- What are some specific examples? What does it look like, what style is it?
- When was it created and how did it originate Is it new, or historical?
- Where is it located? How does it relate to the larger context/situation?
- Why is this idea important to other researchers or yourself?
Concept Mapping / Mind Mapping
Concept mapping (or mind mapping) is a way to visually organize a topic in order to identify relevant themes and connections. A concept map can be made using sketching software, a whiteboard or just a pen and scratch paper - whichever you prefer.