Research Guide: Choose a Topic

There are a few things to look for in the assignment description. Make sure you know the answers to these questions before you begin your research.

Purpose

What is the assignment's purpose? Do you need to explain events, analyze information, or compare/contrast ideas?

Length

How many pages do you need to write? How many sources do you need?

Source Type

What types of sources are required? Some assignments require a set number of academic journal articles and no other sources. Others require you to use your course textbook, a novel you read in class, or even your lecture notes. 

Your research will go better if you choose a topic that you find interesting. If you have not been given a list of topics to choose from, try the following.

Find a Relevant Topic 

• scan your course content and textbooks
• pick out any topics or concepts you might want to learn more about

Ask Questions

• what do you already know about it?
• what else would you like to know?
• ask why, how, or what if? These questions will help lead you to an interesting topic that you can research.

Gather Background Information

If you're having trouble getting started, look for background information to get your ideas flowing. Some sources that might help you get started are:

• newspaper articles
• magazines
• blogs
• encyclopedias
• your instructor, classmates, or library staff

Keep Looking

• if your first topic is not working out, choose a new one!