Choosing and Developing a Topic: Choosing and Developing a Topic

Read your assignment carefully then ask yourself the following questions:

What am I being asked to do? Common assignments include:

• Reporting information, such as historical events, cultural norms, biographical information, etc.
• Presenting both sides of an issue from a neutral standpoint.
• Creating a persuasive argument.
• Reflecting on a personal event.
• Providing instructional information.
• Analyzing a creative work.
• Compare and contrast two different works.

What are the technical details? Be sure to have this information before beginning:

• Due date.
• Length (word count, page length, or time for an oral report).
• Format (including font size and spacing for a written assignment).
• Citation style.

What sources can I use? Sometimes instructors will require the use of a certain source. Oftentimes, you'll be asked to use multiple sources. The librarian can help you find relevant:

• Books.
• Scholarly or peer-reviewed journals.
• Websites.
• Articles.

When choosing your topic keep the following in mind:

• Choose something that interests you, or has touched you and your family, or that you want to know more about.
• Look through your textbook for ideas.
• Browse newspapers and magazines for current events.
• Brainstorm for topics with your professor, classmates, or librarians.
• Consider whether the Library is likely to have material and information on your topic.

• Choosing a Manageable Research Topic

  Tips and strategies to narrow your topic for a more effective paper.

• Brainstorming Technique

  a very short YouTube video

To research effectively for an essay, start with a clear research question, gather background information, use credible sources, take thorough notes, and critically evaluate your findings, ensuring proper citation and balancing sources. Here's a more detailed breakdown of effective research strategies for essays: 1. Define Your Research Question: Start with a broad topic: Brainstorm and select a topic that genuinely interests you. Narrow your focus: Refine your topic into a specific research question or thesis statement. Ask "how" and "why": Formulate questions that encourage critical thinking and analysis. Example: Instead of "global warming," consider "What are the effects of rising sea levels on coastal communities in the United States?". 2. Gather Background Information: Consult various sources: Begin with general overviews from books, encyclopedias, or reputable websites. Identify key concepts: Note the main ideas and terms related to your topic. Read thoroughly: Don't just skim, but engage with the material to understand the context. 3. Find Credible Sources: Prioritize academic sources: Focus on peer-reviewed journals, books, and reputable websites (.edu, .gov). Evaluate source credibility: Consider the author's expertise, the publication's reputation, and the date of publication. Use search engines effectively: Utilize keywords and advanced search operators to refine your search. Examples of credible sources: Academic databases (JSTOR, ProQuest), university libraries, and reputable news organizations. 4. Take Thorough Notes: Organize your notes: Use a system that helps you keep track of sources, quotes, and ideas. Paraphrase and quote strategically: Include both your own analysis and direct quotes from sources to support your arguments. Note down page numbers: This will help you easily locate information when writing your essay. 5. Critically Evaluate Your Findings: Analyze arguments: Consider the author's perspective, evidence, and reasoning. Look for counterarguments: Explore different viewpoints and perspectives on your topic. Synthesize information: Combine ideas from multiple sources to form your own informed opinion. 6. Structure Your Essay: Create an outline: Plan the structure of your essay before you begin writing. Develop a clear thesis statement: State your main argument or position in the introduction. Organize paragraphs logically: Use topic sentences, supporting evidence, and concluding sentences to develop each paragraph. 7. Cite Your Sources Properly: Use a consistent citation style: Follow the guidelines of your chosen style (MLA, APA, Chicago). Include in-text citations: Refer to sources within your essay using author-page numbers or other appropriate methods. Create a bibliography or works cited page: List all sources used in your essay at the end.