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Selecting a Research Topic

Brainstorm for ideas

Choose a topic that interests you. Even if a topic has been assigned, you may be able to choose a particular aspect of the topic that interests you personally. Use the following questions to help you generate topic ideas:

  • Do you have a strong opinion on a current social or political controversy?
  • Did you read a newspaper article, or see a TV broadcast recently that piqued your curiosity or made you angry or anxious?
  • Do you have a personal issue, problem, or interest you'd like to know more about?
  • Do you have a research paper due in a class this semester? 
  • Is there an aspect of one of your courses you are interested in learning more about?

Look at some of the following topically oriented websites and research sites for ideas:

Write down any words or phrases you could use as search terms.