COM 110 Finding a Topic

How to Research for a Good Informative Topic

Finding a Topic

The first step of any research paper or presentation is to select a topic. This is also sometimes the hardest step! This tutorial will present some general advice on finding a topic, and discuss how to broaden or narrow one as needed. We recommend you discuss your topic choice with your instructor as he or she can point you in helpful directions if you are having difficulty.

This tutorial is made up of four sections:

1. What makes a "good" topic?
2. Where can I get ideas for topics?
3. How do I narrow or broaden my topic?
4. How can I tell if there is enough information on my topic?

We suggest you do these sections in order, but you may jump to a different section if you so choose.

Getting Personalized Help

Ask a Librarian

Check out the ways Milner Library can help you with your research

Ask Angie

Visit me at the Reference Desk on Floor 2. This fall semester, I staff the desk on Wednesday evenings 5:00 through 9:00 pm. Additionally, you can e-mail me directly and I'll be happy to help you with your research.

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