Selecting a Topic
Choosing a topic can be one of the most challenging parts of getting started.
- Review your assignment description. Are there any restrictions or guidelines?
- Are there suggestions or requirements on the types of resources you should use to inform your project?
- Are there parameters on how long your project should be?
- When is your assignment due?
- What are you interested in or passionate about? Is there a connection from another course you'd like to build on?
- Review course readings, discussions, and other materials
- What topics, authors, or time periods covered do you find most interesting?
- What haven't you covered yet in class that you want to learn more about?
- Review course readings, discussions, and other materials
Developing a Topic
A concept map is a visual organization/representation of knowledge. Concept mapping:
- Uses free association
- Aids in developing questions
- Reveals themes and patterns
- Helps identify gaps and connections
Concept mapping at the start of the research process can be particularly useful for helping you understand what you know and what you still need to learn. It can also help to clarify the kinds of research methods, resources, and tools you need to consult to better develop and understand your topic.
Doing Preliminary Research
Reference sources can be useful for learning more about your topic and developing research questions—you might even get some ideas by browsing the contents or index of a specialized reference book. Check out our Reference Guide, but here are some general e-reference sources or collections:
- Reference Universe This link opens in a new windowSearchable index of the library's entire reference collection, both print and electronic.
- Gale Virtual Reference Library This link opens in a new window70 reference e-books, including multivolume works like the Encyclopedia of Religion, American Decades, and more.
- Oxford Reference This link opens in a new windowDigitized entries from Oxford's Dictionaries, Companions and Encyclopedias, spanning multiple subject areas.
Activities & Resources
- Concept Map (handout)You can download or print this blank concept map to begin brainstorming around your topic.
- Concept Mapping Prompts (handout)This worksheet will walk you through a process for concept-mapping.
- MindomoAn easy-to-use online concept-mapping tool with a free option.
- Research Strategy, Intention Setting, and Identifying PerspectiveThis worksheet walks you through questions about your interests, perspectives, and intentions that can help you form a base for your research.