WHAT TO WRITE A RESEARCH PAPER ABOUT

Choosing a Topic for Your Research Paper

Picking a topic for your research paper can sometimes be the hardest part of the writing process. There are so many options to choose from, it can feel overwhelming deciding where to start. Selecting the right subject is crucial for having success with your paper. To help you find a topic that works, here are some tips for choosing what to research and write about.

Consider Your Interests

One of the best ways to ensure you’ll be motivated to complete a research paper is by choosing a topic you genuinely find interesting. Think about subjects you enjoy learning about or have prior knowledge of. Your interests might come from hobbies, passions, current events, personal experiences, or things you’ve studied in other classes. Choosing a topic related to your interests makes the research process more enjoyable and writing the paper less of a chore.

For example, if you love sports, consider researching the evolution of a particular sport over time. If you’re passionate about music, analyze prominent music trends through different decades. Picking a subject connected to your interests gives you a built-in incentive to dive deep into your research.

Brainstorm Potential Ideas

Spend time brainstorming ideas without censoring yourself. Jot down anything even remotely intriguing without immediately assessing if it’s “research paper worthy” or not. Let your mind wander to generate a long list of potentials.

Your ideas could stem from questions you have about:

Current events or news stories
Trends you’ve noticed in industries like technology, healthcare, entertainment, etc.
Controversial topics/debates in society
Historical periods or events you find fascinating
Academic subjects related to your major/minor
Books, films, shows, or other works of art that intrigue you
International cultures, policies, or societies you want to learn more about
Scientific concepts, theories, or advances

At this point, don’t overthink ideas or get attached to any one. The goal is just to get as many options on paper as possible to select from later. With an extensive list in front of you, stronger ideas may emerge.

Consider Your Skills and Resources

Think realistically about your research and writing abilities given the parameters of your assignment. An overly ambitious topic might set you up for problems finding sufficient sources or simply having enough time to cover important aspects thoroughly.

Assess what kinds of sources like books, journals, or datasets will be reasonably accessible for your research method. For example, if conducting original interviews or surveys isn’t feasible, avoid topics that require primary data collection. Also determine if your chosen topic aligns well with any required length, formatting, or style guidelines set by your instructor.

Picking a focused area you have necessary skills and resources to research in-depth within the project constraints helps ensure a manageable, high-quality end product. Speak to your professor if unsure about topic scope or feasibility. They can offer suggestions tailored to your abilities and the assignment expectations.

Select Narrow Topics

Broad, vague topics make research incredibly difficult because relevant and credible information gets overly scattered. While big-picture subjects may seem tantalizing at first, aim to narrow your focus as much as possible to something reasonably scoped.

For instance, instead of simply researching “politics,” delve into a more concentrated area like:

The influence of corporate lobbying on environmental policy
Campaign finance reform efforts in recent election cycles
Comparisons of political polarization in US Congress over the last 30 years
Shifting public opinion on key social issues over the past decade

Narrow topics allow for an in-depth analysis versus superficial discussion of general concepts. Clearly defined parameters also make the research process more organized and writing easier to structure with a strong thesis at the center.

Consider Timeliness or Uniqueness

Look for topics that have a sense of immediacy, relevance, or novelty. Researching issues currently unfolding keeps your work timely for audiences. Avoid choices so fresh that limited information exists yet. A moderate blend of newness and established research maintains interest while supporting in-depth exploration. Examining topics from new perspectives or argument angles can also make for a fresh take versus rehashing covered ground.

For example:

Analyzing COVID-19’s long-term social impacts
Comparing national responses to recent global crises
Discussing shifts in public service career paths for younger generations
Arguing underrepresented historical figures deserve broader recognition

Timely or unique topics position research to meaningfully contribute without retreading overly trodden terrain. They help hook readers invested in emerging issues and discussions.

Consult Librarians and Professors

Don’t underestimate the help subject experts can provide! Librarians specialize in navigating vast topic areas and locating quality sources. Run potential subjects by these knowledgeable professionals. They may point out related fields or angles you hadn’t considered with strong available research backing them up.

Similarly, professors in relevant departments can offer insight into current academic conversations happening in their discipline. Consult them to learn what subjects attract interest or have experienced analysis gaps worth exploration. Instructors for your specific class also know expectations for assignments and may suggest approved options fitting guidelines.

Don’t Be Afraid to Adjust as Needed

No need to become married to your first topic idea if upon further reflection or researching, it no longer feels viable. Be willing to let listed options evolve or accept recommendations from advisors. Occasionally the perfect subject emerges unexpectedly partway through the process rather than from an original brainstorm. Make adjustments as necessary to land on a focused, workable research paper topic allowing your strongest work to shine through in the end.

With thorough planning using the strategies discussed, you’re likely to arrive at an engaging, feasible research area equipped for deep exploration. Just be sure to get started on background research early, leave plenty of time for unforeseen complications, and check in with advisors if you need assistance staying on track as your project progresses. Approach the topic selection phase thoughtfully, and you’ll lay the foundation for research paper success.