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How to research a topic online.
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Why we moved from 4:3 monitors to 16:9, and how that changed our work habits, with 5 ports and a detachable extension cord, this power strip is highly versatile, quick links, organize your information early on, start broad and collect a lot of information, decide what's important, and narrow things down, optimize your google search, go further than google, double-check your research, what if you find conflicting information.
Online research is a crucial skill, whether you're working on an academic paper, writing a blog post, or just trying to learn something new about your houseplants. But it's not always easy when you're tackling a complicated or niche topic.
Organizing your information can help you save time, and it can save you from forgetting or misremembering anything that you've learned from your research. You should keep a link to every webpage that you visit from the start to the very end of your research. It's best to write down a little bit of information for each link so that you remember why you saved them and what kind of information that you could take from them. You should also save any PDF's or images related to your research because you can use them as valuable primary sources.
If you need to organize a lot of data across multiple devices, consider using a note-taking app like Evernote , OneNote , or Google Keep . They're all great for keeping track of web pages, PDF's, photos, and whatever else you need for your big project.
If you're just trying to knock out a short essay or learn something about DIY woodworking, then you probably don't need to grab a dedicated note-taking app unless you already use one. You might find it easier to cut and paste web pages into a Word or Google Doc file and save any PDFs or images to your local or cloud storage drive. Just make sure that you keep your files organized and take notes for all of your sources.
In the end, you'll probably only use a handful of the links that you save. But if you're publishing a blog post or writing an essay, you need to be able to double-check and cite all of your sources. Otherwise, you might end up creating a lot of extra work for yourself later.
When researching, it's tempting to dive straight into the first exciting thing that you find. But you should try to start as broad as possible. Otherwise, you might miss out on some fascinating pieces of information and end up with a poor understanding of your topic.
That's why you should try to find a lot of information on your topic, more than you think that you'll need. A good way to start broad is to search Google for general terms related to your topic. If you're researching the difference between sunflowers and tulips, then you should learn a bit of information about each flower before going deeper.
Of course, Wikipedia is also a fantastic place to begin your research. You can use Wikipedia to find a lot of general information on your topic, and you can use it to find related topics or primary sources that may be useful as you go deeper into your research.
Once you've collected a broad swath of data, you need to review everything and decide on what to focus. Don't just go for the first thing that sounds interesting to you. Try to find any new relationships between the different pieces of information that you've gathered.
Let's say that you're researching an author, like Mark Twain. You found in your broad research that he was in the Civil War and that some of his stories take place in the antebellum south. On their own, those two pieces of information are boring and hard to care about. But when you put them together, it's clear that there may be a tantalizing relationship that's worth some in-depth research.
It's okay to research a relationship that seems obvious or well-known, especially if you're writing a blog, doing personal research, or doing a rudimentary history paper. But if you want to find something unique, then you need to think about how to narrow your research.
Okay, you're ready to do some more in-depth research. Now what? If you're looking into something that's kind of unique, then you may have trouble finding some good search results on Google.
That's why you need to use some Google Search Operators to get the most out of your Google searches. There are a lot of search operators that you can use, and they're all pretty straightforward. But there are a few that are especially useful for doing online research.
If you need to look up exact phrases or names on Google, then you can put them in quotation marks. For example, if you search the phrase "mole people" on Google, then you'll only find pages that contain the word "mole" followed by the word "people."
"Mole people"
The idea of starting broad and then narrowing your search applies to searching the web, too.
For example, if your search for "mole people" include too many results related to New York, then you could use a minus sign to exclude those results. This is what it would look like:
"Mole people" -"New York"
Note that we also used quotation marks around "New York" in that search because we want the whole phrase excluded.
If you hit a point in your research where you can't find any new websites to visit, then you should try to switch up your Google search. Try using variations on the same search terms, and change which Search Operators you're using. Sometimes the slightest change in your search will give you wildly different results.
Sometimes Google's expertise won't be enough for you. If you're working on a full academic paper or writing a deep-dive blog post, then you may need to look through some magazines, academic papers, or old books. You know, "primary sources."
Some websites, like Project Muse and JSTOR , are an excellent resource for periodicals, academic papers, and other primary sources. You can usually access them through your University or public library. There's also some free alternatives to these websites, like Google Scholar and SSRN .
But if you're writing a deep-dive on dairy advertisements, then you're going to need to find some old catalogs, magazines, periodicals, and posters. Google Books is an excellent resource for this kind of material.
You can also use Wikipedia to find some primary sources. At the end of every Wikipedia article, there's a "References" table. This table tells you the sources for all of the information in the article. If you come across a juicy bit of information while reading a Wikipedia article, then there's usually a small number that links to the reference table.
It's good to look into all of these resources because they usually come up with different results for the same search. They also tend to have built-in advanced search functions, which are useful for topics that are unique or niche.
Once you've completed your research, you need to make sure that all of your information is accurate. You can save yourself a lot of heartbreak by double-checking all of your research before doing any writing.
Go and reread all of your sources, because there's a chance that you misinterpreted what they're saying. Of course, you're not the only person that can misread a source, so it's good to check any citations that you find on a website.
You should also consider how you used Google to research your topic. If you included any bias in your search terms, then there's a chance that the information that you gathered will reflect that bias. Try searching Google with a variety of search terms and Google Search Operators .
There are also fact-checking websites that you can use to make sure that your information is accurate. Websites like Factcheck.org or Snopes are pretty fantastic; just don't use them as your only fact-checking resource.
Sometimes you'll spend a lot of time double-checking all of your research, and you'll realize that things don't seem to line up. In this situation, it's tempting to stand behind some information that may not be entirely factual. After all, it's a lot easier to go along with inaccurate information than to redo your entire research process.
But you should never write or publish any information unless you're confident that it's accurate. If you run into conflicting information while researching a topic, go back to the drawing board or try to spin the pieces of contradictory information in your favor.
For example, if you find a lot of conflicting eyewitness accounts while researching the Titanic, then you can quickly turn those conflicting accounts into an exciting piece of information. You could even go back and do some in-depth research into who made those eyewitness accounts, and how they shaped the public's opinion on the sinking of the Titanic. Hey, that could be a book.
Image Credits: 13_Phunkod /Shutterstock, fizkes /Shutterstock
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Selecting a Research Topic: Overview
- Refine your topic
- Background information & facts
- Writing help
Here are some resources to refer to when selecting a topic and preparing to write a paper:
- MIT Writing and Communication Center "Providing free professional advice about all types of writing and speaking to all members of the MIT community."
- Search Our Collections Find books about writing. Search by subject for: english language grammar; report writing handbooks; technical writing handbooks
- Blue Book of Grammar and Punctuation Online version of the book that provides examples and tips on grammar, punctuation, capitalization, and other writing rules.
- Select a topic
Choosing an interesting research topic is your first challenge. Here are some tips:
- Choose a topic that you are interested in! The research process is more relevant if you care about your topic.
- If your topic is too broad, you will find too much information and not be able to focus.
- Background reading can help you choose and limit the scope of your topic.
- Review the guidelines on topic selection outlined in your assignment. Ask your professor or TA for suggestions.
- Refer to lecture notes and required texts to refresh your knowledge of the course and assignment.
- Talk about research ideas with a friend. S/he may be able to help focus your topic by discussing issues that didn't occur to you at first.
- WHY did you choose the topic? What interests you about it? Do you have an opinion about the issues involved?
- WHO are the information providers on this topic? Who might publish information about it? Who is affected by the topic? Do you know of organizations or institutions affiliated with the topic?
- WHAT are the major questions for this topic? Is there a debate about the topic? Are there a range of issues and viewpoints to consider?
- WHERE is your topic important: at the local, national or international level? Are there specific places affected by the topic?
- WHEN is/was your topic important? Is it a current event or an historical issue? Do you want to compare your topic by time periods?
Table of contents
- Broaden your topic
- Information Navigator home
- Sources for facts - general
- Sources for facts - specific subjects
Start here for help
Ask Us Ask a question, make an appointment, give feedback, or visit us.
- Next: Refine your topic >>
- Last Updated: Jul 30, 2021 2:50 PM
- URL: https://libguides.mit.edu/select-topic
Research Process Guide
- Step 1 - Identifying and Developing a Topic
- Step 2 - Narrowing Your Topic
- Step 3 - Developing Research Questions
- Step 4 - Conducting a Literature Review
- Step 5 - Choosing a Conceptual or Theoretical Framework
- Step 6 - Determining Research Methodology
- Step 6a - Determining Research Methodology - Quantitative Research Methods
- Step 6b - Determining Research Methodology - Qualitative Design
- Step 7 - Considering Ethical Issues in Research with Human Subjects - Institutional Review Board (IRB)
- Step 8 - Collecting Data
- Step 9 - Analyzing Data
- Step 10 - Interpreting Results
- Step 11 - Writing Up Results
Step 1: Identifying and Developing a Topic
Whatever your field or discipline, the best advice to give on identifying a research topic is to choose something that you find really interesting. You will be spending an enormous amount of time with your topic, you need to be invested. Over the course of your research design, proposal and actually conducting your study, you may feel like you are really tired of your topic, however, your interest and investment in the topic will help you persist through dissertation defense. Identifying a research topic can be challenging. Most of the research that has been completed on the process of conducting research fails to examine the preliminary stages of the interactive and self-reflective process of identifying a research topic (Wintersberger & Saunders, 2020). You may choose a topic at the beginning of the process, and through exploring the research that has already been done, one’s own interests that are narrowed or expanded in scope, the topic will change over time (Dwarkadas & Lin, 2019). Where do I begin? According to the research, there are generally two paths to exploring your research topic, creative path and the rational path (Saunders et al., 2019). The rational path takes a linear path and deals with questions we need to ask ourselves like: what are some timely topics in my field in the media right now?; what strengths do I bring to the research?; what are the gaps in the research about the area of research interest? (Saunders et al., 2019; Wintersberger & Saunders, 2020).The creative path is less linear in that it may include keeping a notebook of ideas based on discussion in coursework or with your peers in the field. Whichever path you take, you will inevitably have to narrow your more generalized ideas down. A great way to do that is to continue reading the literature about and around your topic looking for gaps that could be explored. Also, try engaging in meaningful discussions with experts in your field to get their take on your research ideas (Saunders et al., 2019; Wintersberger & Saunders, 2020). It is important to remember that a research topic should be (Dwarkadas & Lin, 2019; Saunders et al., 2019; Wintersberger & Saunders, 2020):
- Interesting to you.
- Realistic in that it can be completed in an appropriate amount of time.
- Relevant to your program or field of study.
- Not widely researched.
Dwarkadas, S., & Lin, M. C. (2019, August 04). Finding a research topic. Computing Research Association for Women, Portland State University. https://cra.org/cra-wp/wp-content/uploads/sites/8/2019/04/FindingResearchTopic/2019.pdf
Saunders, M. N. K., Lewis, P., & Thornhill, A. (2019). Research methods for business students (8th ed.). Pearson.
Wintersberger, D., & Saunders, M. (2020). Formulating and clarifying the research topic: Insights and a guide for the production management research community. Production, 30 . https://doi.org/10.1590/0103-6513.20200059
- Last Updated: Jun 29, 2023 1:35 PM
- URL: https://libguides.kean.edu/ResearchProcessGuide
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- Writing Resources
- Sheridan Libraries
- Develop a Research Topic or Question
- How to Access Full Text
- Google Scholar and Google Books
- Evaluate Your Sources This link opens in a new window
- Citing Sources This link opens in a new window
- Avoiding Plagiarism
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- Literature Reviews
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Before You Start
- What do you already know about your subject? Keep a list of key words, names, and events.
- How long has your subject existed? Is it a relatively new concept with a lot published about it, or new and undiscovered?
- What discipline does your topic fall into? A discipline is an area of study or branch of learning (e.g., History, Biology). Each has its own best starting points.
- How are you viewing the topic? Think about what you are planning to emphasize: politics, history, or another aspect?
- What's the Timing? How long do you have to do this project? How long does it need to be?
Three Approaches for Developing a Topic
Approach #1: List Key Words of Interest Make lists of concepts and topics you find interesting, as well as lists of related words and synonyms. These can serve as your key search terms.
school choice | discrimination | synonyms? |
educational choice | educational access | related terms? |
open enrollment | access to education | alternate phrases? |
educational vouchers | social justice | key names, events? |
Approach #2: Draw It Out Sketch out the relationships between ideas.
Approach #3: Define it in Sentences Write an explanation of your topic, justifying it on multiple levels:
I am studying... conformity in Woolf’s Orlando in order to find out... how Orlando’s efforts to conform and fit in change over time in order to help my reader understand... the role maturity and self-awareness play in the character’s efforts to conform to societal norms.
Adapted from The Craft of Research (2003) by Wayne C. Booth, Gregory G. Colomb, and Joseph M. Williams. (We also own the latest edition, 8th edition, 2016 , in print.)
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How to Do Research
Last Updated: March 13, 2023 References
This article was co-authored by Matthew Snipp, PhD and by wikiHow staff writer, Jennifer Mueller, JD . C. Matthew Snipp is the Burnet C. and Mildred Finley Wohlford Professor of Humanities and Sciences in the Department of Sociology at Stanford University. He is also the Director for the Institute for Research in the Social Science’s Secure Data Center. He has been a Research Fellow at the U.S. Bureau of the Census and a Fellow at the Center for Advanced Study in the Behavioral Sciences. He has published 3 books and over 70 articles and book chapters on demography, economic development, poverty and unemployment. He is also currently serving on the National Institute of Child Health and Development’s Population Science Subcommittee. He holds a Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Wisconsin—Madison. This article has been viewed 228,855 times.
The idea of doing research may seem daunting, but as long as you keep yourself organized and focus on the question you want to answer, you'll be fine. If you're curious and interested in the topic, you might even find it fun! We here at wikiHow have gathered answers to all your most common questions about how to do research, from finding a good topic to identifying the best sources and writing your final paper.
How do I find a topic to research?
- For example, if you're researching in the political science field, you might be interested in determining what leads people to believe that the 2020 US presidential election was illegitimate.
How do I get started on my research?
- For example, if you're researching the 2020 election, you might find that "absentee ballots" and "voting by mail" come up frequently. Those are issues you could look into further to figure out how they impacted the final election results.
- You don't necessarily have to use the overview articles you look at as resources in your actual paper. Even Wikipedia articles can be a good way to learn more about a topic and you can check the references for more reputable sources that might work for your paper.
What's the best way to keep track of my sources?
- Research papers typically discuss 2 or 3 separate things that work together to answer the research question. You might also want to make a note on the front of which thing that source relates to. That'll make it easier for you to organize your sources later.
- For example, if you're researching the 2020 election, you might have a section of your paper discussing voting by mail. For the sources that directly address that issue, write "voting by mail" in the corner.
What kind of notes should I be taking as I research?
- If you find something that you think would make a good quote, copy it out exactly with quote marks around it, then add the page number where it appears so you can correctly cite it in your paper without having to go back and hunt for it again.
How do I evaluate the quality of a source?
- Does the article discuss or reference another article? (If so, use that article instead.)
- What expertise or authority does the author have?
- When was the material written? (Is it the most up-to-date reference you could use?)
- Why was the article published? (Is it trying to sell you something or persuade you to adopt a certain viewpoint?)
- Are the research methods used consistent and reliable? (Appropriate research methods depend on what was studied.)
What if I'm having a hard time finding good sources?
- For example, if you're writing about the 2020 election, you might find tons of stories online, but very little that is reputable enough for you to use in your paper. Because the election happened so recently, it might be too soon for there to be a lot of solid academic research on it. Instead, you might focus on the 2016 election.
- You can also ask for help. Your instructor might be able to point you toward good sources. Research librarians are also happy to help you.
How do I organize my research for my paper?
- For example, if you're researching the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the 2020 election, you might have sections on social distancing and cleaning at in-person voting locations, the accessibility of mail-in ballots, and early voting.
What's the best way to start writing my paper?
- Include an in-text citation for everything that needs one, even in your initial rough draft. That'll help you make sure that you don't inadvertently misattribute or fail to cite something as you work your way through substantive drafts.
- Write your introduction and conclusion only after you're satisfied that the body of your paper is essentially what you want to turn in. Then, you can polish everything up for the final draft.
How can I make sure I'm not plagiarizing?
- If you have any doubt over whether you should cite something, go ahead and do it. You're better off to err on the side of over-citing than to look like you're taking credit for an idea that isn't yours.
- ↑ https://www.nhcc.edu/student-resources/library/doinglibraryresearch/basic-steps-in-the-research-process
- ↑ Matthew Snipp, PhD. Sociology Professor, Stanford University. Expert Interview. 26 March 2020.
- ↑ https://library.taylor.edu/eng-212/research-paper
- ↑ http://www.butte.edu/departments/cas/tipsheets/research/research_paper.html
- ↑ https://www.potsdam.edu/sites/default/files/documents/support/tutoring/cwc/6-Simple-Steps-for-Writing-a-Research-Paper.pdf
- ↑ https://www.umgc.edu/current-students/learning-resources/writing-center/online-guide-to-writing/tutorial/chapter4/ch4-05.html
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About This Article
If you need to do research on a particular topic, start by searching the internet for any information you can find on the subject. In particular, look for sites that are sourced by universities, scientists, academic journals, and government agencies. Next, visit your local library and use the electric card catalog to research which books, magazines, and journals will have information on your topic. Take notes as you read, and write down all of the information you’ll need to cite your sources in your final project. To learn how interviewing a first-hand source can help you during your research, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No
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How to Research: Ultimate Guide [+Online Tools]
The ability to effectively research is a skill that every student needs to succeed in their educational career. However, most people don’t really understand what research entails. Does it mean spending hours at your university library exploring archives? Or is searching for information online from the comfort of your home enough? And why can’t you just rely on Wikipedia, after all?
Our specialists have created this guide for students who feel lost when putting together an essay, paper, or presentation. Here, we will describe how to research in a detailed, step-by-step manner. We have also provided links to useful tools and resources that will help you along the way. First of all, let’s cover the definitions.
❓ What Is Research?
- Develop a Topic
- Look Through Sources
- Evaluate the Sources
- Write Your Paper
- Cite Your Sources
💡 9 Online Tools for Research
Research refers to the systematic process of discovering information and developing knowledge. We use it to understand new topics and to gain more insight into known issues. This happens through the collection and analysis of relevant data. The ability to research efficiently is one of the most fundamental skills in academia.
Any type of research will include the following features:
- A sound hypothesis on which the rest of the study is based. It will be either proven or disproven by the evidence gathered.
- Systematic investigative methods . These are controlled and follow a pre-established set of rules.
- Logical analysis . It follows a set procedure that involves deductive and inductive reasoning.
- Empirical data based on actual observation and evidence.
- Analytical study of the findings . This ensures in-depth exploration and minimizes mistakes.
- Creation of new questions and new lines of inquiry about the subject via the research.
With that being said, a research paper is more than just the sum of its sources. Its primary purpose is to analyze or argue a particular perspective. In the end, your thoughts and ideas should be the ones you investigate. The evidence you discover during the research process will be the basis for your hypothesis.
There are three universal purposes of research that you should know about:
1. | Exploratory | A problem that hasn’t been investigated before and isn’t clearly defined requires . This is the first step in laying the foundation for future, in-depth study. It requires an unstructured approach and posits several questions for the researchers to answer. |
2. | Descriptive | With a focus on an existing problem, tries to expand our knowledge of the subject matter. It aims to define, explain, and confirm results. This type of research asks the questions ‘what’ and ‘how.’ |
3. | Explanatory | Also known as , the goal here is to look at the cause-and-effect relationship between variables. The main question in this type of research is ‘why.’ That is why it is usually approached with experiments. |
📚 How to Research: Step-by-Step Guide
As all the definitions you need are covered, we can proceed to learn about the process itself. We have developed this guide so that you won’t have any trouble conducting your research. In the image below, you can see all the required steps.
In the following sections, you will examine each step in detail. Also, you’ll see the reasons why our tips are practical and how to find sources for your research. Good luck!
1. Develop a Topic
1.1. pick or create a topic.
The first step to research is landing on the right idea. This process isn’t always easy, especially when you aren’t familiar with the chosen area of study. However, don’t fret. You can always change your topic later.
Let’s explore how to select your first research idea.
Research is always conducted for a particular reason. It will always relate to writing a paper, creating a project, validating existing results, etc. Your research depends on the goal of your assignment.
The answers will help you define the direction of your work:
- Do you have a list of pre-assigned topics? Can you come up with one yourself?
- What is the due date for your work? How much time does that leave for research?
- What is the scope of your assignment? (Presentation length, number of words/pages, etc.)
- Are there any specific requirements regarding the sources that you are allowed to use?
- Is it essential to use recent information and current sources?
When you have the answers to all the key questions, you can think of your topic. The following tips will help you:
- Choose an idea that is relevant to your assignment. Usually, your instructor will give you detailed instructions before you start working. If you are unsure about your guidelines, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification.
- Ensure that there are enough resources for you to use. When you think of an idea, do a quick preliminary search. It will allow you to determine whether there is enough available information on your topic. Take time to validate those resources and make sure they’re reliable.
- Search for a topic that is not too broad or too narrow. This step directly correlates with the one above. If you are finding too much general information, narrowing down your search might be a good idea. However, if you struggle to find credible sources, it could be a sign to broaden your topic.
- Try to be original. Restating the same ideas that have been explored thousands of times could damage your grade. Chances are, your instructor has heard it all before and isn’t all that interested in hearing it again. Yet, choosing an unconventional approach with a fresh perspective might earn you extra credit for creativity.
- Aim to find an area that will be interesting to explore. If you find a topic that you, personally, are curious about, researching it will be much more pleasant. This way, when you start writing or searching for information, you might actually enjoy the process.
1.2. Formulate Research Questions
As soon as you have chosen a topic, take the time to format it correctly. Wording it as a question will ensure that your focus is precise and nuanced.
And here is how you create research questions:
Step 1 : Do some research.
Take a look at the most recent discussions and debates on your selected topic. You can check out academic journals and scholarly conferences. Keep your focus on the main arguments to acquaint yourself with the concepts.
Step 2 : Try narrowing down your topic.
It is a lot more effective to target a single dimension of a broader topic than to tackle everything. To do this, try focusing on a particular aspect, such as a specific location or time period. You can also aim to discuss certain debates or issues that exist within the topic.
Step 3 : Keep your audience in mind.
There is a difference between crafting a presentation for your classmates and writing a research paper. Your audience will determine the level of detail that goes into your question.
Step 4 : Ask questions.
Once you have considered the above steps, it is time to begin asking yourself questions. Make sure they’re open-ended and start with ‘why,’ ‘how,’ or ‘what.’
Step 5 : Evaluate your questions.
After you come up with a couple of ideas, jot them down on paper. Look back at all the requirements for a successful research question. Which one of them will be the most effective for your assignment?
1.3. Choose a Research Strategy
To develop constructive research questions, you will need to conduct an initial survey of your resources. Take everything you’ve learned so far as your foundation. Now, you will need to create an efficient strategy for your further actions.
Your research strategy will depend on the following:
Time | It will dictate which resources you should focus on. If your time is limited, concentrate on gathering data on the web and in your library. However, if your deadlines aren’t as strict, consider conducting first-hand research. |
Type of Project | It will determine the depth of your research. Note the guidelines given by your tutor – do you have any limitations? Ensure that you’re not going over or under the margins specified. |
Type of Data | It will define the approach to your topic. Think about whether you need facts and statistics or opinions about particular debates. |
Type of Sources | They will provide the context for your work. Reflect on what you are trying to achieve with your research. Perhaps it would benefit from the use of primary sources. |
1.4. Figure out Keywords
With your research questions, strategy, and some background info covered, it will be easier to determine the keywords . They will help you look for resources and locate your work in the future. Over here, see how to work with keywords.
Once you have a selection of keywords, you can improve them by doing the following:
- Break them into related concepts. By the end, you should have four or five columns with associated keywords.
- Choose one keyword from each column. Use your library’s search engine to look them up. Don’t forget to type ‘AND’ in-between the words. It will narrow down the search so that only articles containing all the selected keywords will appear.
- Explore the results! Don’t be afraid to try several different combinations. You should also make sure to list all those keywords that bring you the most valuable results.
- If you don’t have enough results, try using fewer keywords. Alternatively, you can try to make your keywords broader.
- If you have too many results, try using more keywords. Alternatively, you can try to make your keywords narrower.
- Pay attention to which articles are the most relevant to your needs. Make sure to save them and skim them for a list of keywords. Write them down, and create a new list!
- Once you have exhausted your first list, you can create another one. Run another search following these steps. Don’t forget to note down the relevant materials – you’ll need them for your citations!
1.5. Improve Your Topic
As we mentioned above, you can change and refine your topic as many times as you need before you begin writing. That is why in this section, we will talk about how to polish and improve your idea. At the very least, we’ll give you tips on how to format it correctly.
First of all, we need to make sure that your topic is researchable. To accomplish this, answer the 5 ‘w’ questions :
- Why are you choosing this particular topic? How is it interesting or different from the rest? What is your stance on the matter?
- What are the main issues your topic is trying to explore? Is it controversial? What other opinions and questions exist on the subject?
- Who is talking about the topic? What points of view exist, and who is giving them? What is their agenda?
- When was this topic discussed? Is the issue recent or historical? Does the time frame matter?
- Where lays the importance of your topic? Is it debated on an international, national, or local level? Is there a particular place that is more affected than the rest of the world?
After answering these questions, you need to evaluate your idea from these two perspectives:
- Is your topic too broad?
It may happen if you find far too much information on the subject that doesn’t seem relevant. You will want to narrow it down and include some specifics, such as:
- Place (country, city, street, part of the world, etc.);
- Time (year, era, century, etc.);
- Populace (ethnicity, gender, age, occupation, etc.);
- Event or characteristic (historical occurrence, institutional perspective, etc.);
- Individual or group (a particular point of view, specific person or persons, etc.).
- Is your topic too narrow?
If you are discovering too few sources to build a proper case, your topic is too narrow. Try to broaden it using the following methods:
- Remove some of the specifics (place, time, populace, etc.).
- Expand some of the specifics (place, time, populace, etc.).
- Use synonyms to reword your topic.
- Look in other databases to broaden your horizons.
- Consider looking into a less current issue (the newer an idea is, the harder it is to find sources).
2. Look Through Sources
2.1. determine possible sources.
By this time, you most probably looked for background information on your topic a couple of times. Now it’s time to look for more specific info.
For starters, get the keywords you’ve chosen and see if there is enough information available. You can start by checking appropriate titles in the online libraries. Look for sources in encyclopedias and dictionaries to overview what books or articles you can use.
You can use the following websites for this purpose:
- Oxford English Dictionary
- Wordreference.com
- Encyclopedia Britannica Online
- Oxford Reference Online
Apart from encyclopedias and dictionaries, there are, of course, other places you can check. For instance, you can search for books in your local or university library . When you look through the text on the shelf, pay attention to the books nearby – they can become useful too in the subject area.
Additionally, you can find information in your textbooks and assigned readings. Use your library’s electronic databases that keep magazines and newspapers on the topic. In case you are not sure how to do that, ask your librarian. Also, use search engines to locate materials on the Internet. These types of sources will be helpful when looking for generic information.
2.2. Skim Some Books
When it comes to using books for your research, both hard and electronic copies work as well. In this section, we will tell you how to use them for your research.
If you are a student, you probably do not have time to read every single book. When working on a short paper, essay, or presentation with limited time, you are simply looking for citations. Luckily, there is no need to waste your time examining each book thoroughly. Skimming is enough to understand if the source works for you or not.
To get the needed information in the book, look at the following elements:
- Title Page. There, you can find all the essential details about the book, the author’s name, title, the publisher’s name, the date of publication, etc.
- Table of Contents. This part provides you with a list of all the chapters in the book. You can get a general idea of what topics the author covered.
- List of Illustrations. In some books, authors use illustrations, tables, drawings to support the arguments and the facts. Looking through them can help you see the stats or some other facts quickly.
- Preface or Introduction. Usually, this part of the book provides the author’s intentions and the purpose of the book. Read it to see whether the book’s topic is necessary for your research.
- Bibliography. This part of the book provides a list of materials that the author used. You can check the bibliography for additional resources or references.
- Index. Skimming an index is excellent for identifying where the relevant information is located in the book. It can also give you some additional keywords that might be helpful for your research.
How to Find Books: Free Resources
You can find paperback books in your school’s library or ask your professor if he can lend you some helpful resources. To look for ebooks, we recommend using one of the following services:
It is an open library catalog through which you can read and borrow more than 3 million books. | |
It is a service from Google Inc for full-text books. Google claims that it has over 40 million scanned books. | |
Internet Archive is a free online library of millions of books, movies, software, music, etc. | |
It is one of the oldest digital libraries. It stores almost 50,000 ebooks in various formats. | |
WorldCat is an online library catalog. It allows you to look up dissertations, books, essays, journals, and multimedia worldwide. |
For more free books and textbooks, check out the list of online learning resources for different subjects.
2.3. Find Relevant Articles
Scholarly articles are essential parts of every research. Even small argumentative essays usually contain citations from these resources. Here, we will explain how to work with them.
But first, you have to understand how to differentiate based on where these articles are being published. There are two types:
- Peer-reviewed journals
These journals include articles written by an expert in the field. Another expert (experts) read the article and provided feedback. Thus, the author implemented the needed changes based on the review.
- Scholarly journals
Experts write articles for these journals. They address the papers to other academics in the same field. Usually, scholarly journals are written by professional associations or academic press.
Usually, students can use academic and scholarly journals interchangeably. However, you should ask your instructor to explain if sources called “academic” are acceptable.
Not to read every single piece of writing, you need to learn how to identify if the article is credible or not. For that, pay attention to the following elements:
- Author. Look out for the author’s degrees and credentials. Additionally, see if they are a member of any association or work at a university or official organization.
- Intended audience. Understanding the article’s aim is essential. If the author intends to entertain and inform the general public, it may not be the best source for a student. You can still read and learn from without citing.
- Publication type. Some of the ways to recognize the type are:
- Go online and read the sections’ “aims and scope.”
- Check the visual appearance. If the article has colorful images and graphics, it is most probably written for the general public.
- Structure. You can also look at the length and formatting of the article. If it has a clear organization with headings, then most probably, the piece is scholarly. Same with the size. Short papers (with less than five pages) in general are likely to be not academic articles.
- Style. Examine the language, the point of view, and the tone of the article. If the document has many technical terms and professional jargon, then it is usually scholarly or peer-reviewed. Ask yourself what level of education one needs to comprehend the text entirely.
If all of the following parameters fit your expectations, you can only start by reading and analyzing the article.
How to Find Articles: Free Resources
Not sure where to look for articles? Check the following resources that our team recommends:
Google Scholar is a web search engine that indexes most peer-reviewed journals, books, abstracts, theses, and dissertations. The goal behind this engine is to make access to scientific knowledge more efficient. It also has a citation analysis tool. | |
WWS is a global science search engine that looks for articles and scientific papers across more than 100 databases. It is partially free and multilingual. | |
Microsoft Academic is a web search for scientific knowledge. You look for any topic, author, journal, or combination of the following on the website. Microsoft Academic is entirely free. | |
ScienceOpen is a complete end-to-end publishing solution that has over 50 million articles and records. It provides a wide range of tools to researchers for free. | |
RG is a European social networking website for scientists and researchers. You don’t have to register to read articles. Yet, you need to have an email affiliated with one of the recognized institutions to become a site member. | |
It is a search engine designed for teachers, students, and those doing home school programs. Librarians created it using Google custom search. | |
The CORE is a service provided by the Knowledge Media Institute. The aim is to gain open access to different systems as it works closely with digital libraries. CORE claims that it is the world’s largest aggregator of open access research papers. | |
ERIC is an online library of education research and information. The U.S. Department of Education sponsors it. This library is free of charge and has a lot of filters for the most accurate search results. |
2.4. Examine Useful Databases
If you still don’t know what sources to use, you can study databases. These collections contain many high-quality books and articles and conference presentations, video lectures, illustrations, etc. In this section, see how to use them and how to benefit from doing this.
A database is a collection of stored and structured information, usually controlled by a dates management system (DBMS). Information is generally modeled in rows and columns in different tables. Thus, even your university’s online library can be considered a database.
Here are some crucial tips on using databases:
- AND ➡️ when you want to use both terms.
- OR ➡️ when you can choose either time.
- NOT ➡️ when you want to exclude words.
- Type asterisks, exclamation points, and questions marks. If you don’t use asterisks and wildcards, some databases will not provide the search you need. They are also beneficial in making your search more specific.
- Look out for the “subject search” option. This way, you will search for information located on the heading field. It is possible due to a system called controlled vocabulary .
- Improve your keywords. Try to be creative with your key phrases and words. Look for all the possible ways to express your topic by using synonyms and associated concepts.
- Try using parentheses . When you look for complex queries, use parentheses. They will allow you to group terms together.
- Search for clues. Carefully look for tips and hints in the results. Analysis of the trends, indications, and numbers can help you understand the information better.
- Check the stacks . Stacks are linear data structures that follow a specific pattern. As collections of elements, they can help you with one particular search.
- Look through different databases. You can look across other databases and combine what you’ve found. The more data you will consider, the more precise your results are.
Free Databases to Use for Research
There are many open-access databases that you can use when conducting your research. Our experts previously mentioned a lot of those in the sections about ebooks and scholarly articles.
Here are some more databases that you can find to be helpful:
DOAJ is a community-curated online journal. It provides access to high-quality, peer-reviewed journals. | |
EThOS is a bibliographic database provided by the British Library. You can search across 500000+ works for free and access the full text. | |
This one is a catalog provided by World Bank. It includes databases, tables, reports, and other resources. | |
This database is provided by U.S. Government science agencies. It contains a search engine that will make your search effortless. | |
SSRN is worldwide research that contains full-text academic papers. It is an open-access resource for subjects like accounting, economics, finance, law, etc. | |
PLOS is a nonprofit organization that publishes research in medicine and science. It is peer-reviewed that publishes papers under creative commons licenses. |
We also recommend looking at the available open databases prepared by the University of California at Santa Barbara and Elmira College .
2.5. See Other Websites
Besides search engines and databases, there are other online resources that you can use as a starting point for your research. The only issue is that you might not know if the information is legit.
These websites are suitable for academic research:
- Educational sites (*.edu)
- Government sites (*.gov)
- News sites (CNN, NBC News, FOX News, etc.)
- Professional, nonprofit organizations (Unicef, WWF, etc.)
- General informative websites (Wikipedia)
Of course, you can use online resources for research. They are especially great when you’re looking for background information or defining the topic. Yet, one thing to keep in mind is to choose the websites and data from them carefully.
Here are some cons of using these online sources:
- Unreliable. Anyone can write websites, and they are rarely checked for accuracy, bias, and credibility. They are also regularly filled with old content.
- Chargeable. A lot of websites are free of charge. Yet, very often, to read the full article or cite the page you need, you have to pay.
- Tricky to cite. Most websites do not have any citation tools, so it can be hard to add them as references.
- Unstable. Websites are usually not permanent. Both the content and the address change – the link might not be available later on.
Free Websites to Use for Research
Using different websites for background information search and a general understanding of a given topic makes total sense. But when needed, you can use them for actual research.
For this purpose, we recommend the following websites:
HowStuffWorks is an American website that professor Marshall Brain founded. The topics include animals, culture, politics, and many more. | |
It is an index of all the best websites for research. The years range from 1999 to 2016. | |
On this website, you can find more than 45 million images, texts, videos, and sounds from across the United States. DPLA can be used for scholarly research and education. | |
It is a public collection that offers more than one million images, videos, and documents. This general collection includes papers from Cornell University, MIT, RISD, and Colby College. | |
This website is a place that you can use to search for topics. It is a part of Technology and Transformation Services. It also has a Spanish-language portal. | |
It is the U.S. Government’s open data website. You can find information, tools, resources for successful research. It was launched in 2009 and hosted by the U.S. General Services Administration. |
3. Evaluate the Sources
3.1. select what sources to use.
By this step, you have collected many sources for your work. Now is the time to sort through them and get rid of the ones you don’t need. Here, we will explain how to choose appropriate sources for your research.
When checking the quality and credibility of a source, use this checklist:
✔ | Currency | The information that was relevant five years ago may not be relevant any longer. Thus, it is crucial to check for the currency and accuracy of your sources. Even when regarding trustworthy publishers, take note of the dates of the studies. |
✔ | Purpose | Every single research is done with a particular agenda in mind. Sometimes, it is to pursue advancements in science. Other times, the purpose may be political or economic. Ensure that you check who publishes the information you’re reading and what possible motive or bias they might have. |
✔ | Relevance | Any topic has several perspectives and several possible approaches. Not to mention, one area of inquiry can open the door to many others. Double-check that the information you’re studying is directly relevant to your research question. |
✔ | Authority | Consider who is publishing the information and what credentials the author has. Is this well-known research, or are you referring to someone’s opinion? Make sure that others can verify the statements you’re reading. |
✔ | Accuracy | It is up to you to verify whether your sources are credible. Take into account the previous points in the checklist and let them guide you. Assess the accuracy of the claims you’re reading before adding the source to your reference list. |
✔ | Publisher | Note if an academic press has published the article or book you’re considering. In this case, the chances are that it has been through a peer-review process, and the information is accurate. However, for data found on the web, you may have to fact-check the claims yourself. |
3.2. Take Notes
When you have sorted through your sources, you can start reading through them at length. You will still have the opportunity to filter out unneeded information. To accomplish this, we recommend marking down the relevant fragments that you will use in your work.
We advise you to study your sources in the following order:
Step 1 : Skim through the text.
Don’t immediately spend an excessive amount of time reading paragraphs and paragraphs of text. First, run through the source to identify the most relevant passages and headings. Note any words or terminology that catch your eye. It will allow you to form a rough idea of the author’s main arguments.
Step 2 : Ask questions.
After you finish skimming through the text, write down any questions that formed in your mind. Make sure that you keep them relevant to your topic. These questions will help you figure out what information you are hoping to obtain from the source.
Step 3 : Underline or highlight.
It’s time to read the source actively. Grab a highlighter or a pen and note down anything that seems relevant or interesting. Pay special attention to the passages that caught your eye earlier. Once you find answers to your questions (or think of even more questions), make sure to jot them in the margins.
Step 4 : Summarize .
As you have finished reading, write down a quick summary of your findings. Do this immediately after you finish while the information is still fresh in your mind. Organize your notes and look up any terminology that isn’t familiar. Also, take a quick look at the bibliography provided by the source – you could find something useful!
Step 5 : Write down key information.
Before moving on to the next source, don’t forget to note everything you need for the bibliography. Write down the title, the author’s name, the publisher, and the date of publishing. If you are using a website, save the URL. Double-check which citation format you’re required to use.
4. Write Your Paper
4.1. formulate your thesis.
A thesis statement is often referred to as the heart of your work since it contains the main idea and stance of the author. The writing process starts with figuring out what you want to say. State it in one sentence, referring back to all the research that you have conducted thus far.
Here are a few tips you could use in writing a compelling thesis statement based on your research:
- State your point clearly. Your argument needs to be explicit and direct. Remember that you will have to address it within the limited confines of your work. There isn’t the space to consider too many points of view. That is why your audience must be clear on the direction your debate is going to follow.
- Be specific. You have to ensure that your wording is as clear-cut as possible. The thesis needs to state the exact idea you will be exploring. If you formulate it too vaguely, the content of your work will be all over the place. Polish your thesis until it becomes specific to your argument.
- Question what you think. To accomplish this, you will need to keep your target audience in mind. Consider what views your readers must have to understand the point you are trying to make. Your statement must be grounded to those who don’t necessarily have the same ideas as you.
- Showcase a strong position. Don’t forget that your thesis statement is a reflection of your comprehension of the topic. While it must be clear and coherent, it should also advance your unique position on the matter. Instead of simply making an observation about something, don’t hesitate to take a stance.
Formulating a successful thesis statement takes time and practice. It is likely that you will not get it completely right on your first try. If you feel like you need some training or require examples, try using our thesis statement generator .
4.2. Outline Your Paper
If you have reached this stage in your work process, it means that you have everything you need. You have composed a strong thesis statement and have your notes and arguments beside you. Now, you have to put them together in a logical order. This way, your reader will see your thought process clearly.
To organize your paper , try this approach:
- Determine the research problem. This isn’t just your thesis statement but is also the key to creating your title. It is the central point of your work. Try formulating it in a single sentence or phrase for efficiency.
- Identify the key arguments. Think of what points you are trying to make with your research. Very briefly note them in your introduction. You will proceed to explore and build on them throughout the rest of your paper.
- Formulate the first category. Consider which point you should cover first. Typically, it is a good idea to start with definitions and clarifications of any critical terminology. You may also want to introduce the background of a particular theory or concept you are exploring.
- Include subcategories if needed. For now, try listing them in the form of a bullet list. The subcategories should provide the basis and support the main points you’re making.
- Sum up and conclude. Once you have created the rough draft, tie everything together. Conclude your project and refer back to your thesis. Make sure that you haven’t strayed away from your research question in creating your outline.
If you have followed these steps, you should end up with a defined beginning, middle, and end. Naturally, different research papers will have carrying outlines. For example, a term paper will have a smaller number of subcategories than a dissertation. Moreover, some projects will require you to mention your research methods, results, etc. You can find more information on how to write an essay or another type of paper in specialized online guides.
4.3. Add Quotes and Examples
To prove that you aren’t making up arguments on the fly, you should provide supporting evidence. You have to refer back to your sources and cite articles and books found during your research.
You can cite a source as supporting evidence like this:
Summarizing | Listing the main points made in the source in a shortened form. | Read the extract you are trying to summarize until you have a good understanding of the material. Think about two or three main ideas that capture the essence of the argument. Write it down and revise, adding the citation in parenthesis at the end. |
Paraphrasing | Restating the arguments made by the author using your own words. | Read the passage or sentence you want to paraphrase several times. Once you think you have grasped its meaning, go back to your paper. Change the sentence’s structure and use synonyms. Cite the source in parenthesis when you are done. |
Quoting | Copying the exact sentence or phrase as it appears in the source without alteration. | Make sure that the quotation you want to use isn’t too lengthy. It should be relevant to your text. Copy it word for word with quotation marks. Add the citation at the end in parenthesis. |
You will be rephrasing and analyzing others’ opinions on your chosen topic for most of your work. However, from time to time, a direct quotation is necessary to support your arguments. This is suitable in the following cases:
- You don’t want to lose the author’s original meaning by summarizing or paraphrasing their words.
- The language in the source material is very effective and would be weakened if you tried to reword it.
- The language that the author is using is important historically.
- The authority found in the source will lend more credibility to the point you are trying to make.
5. Cite Your Sources
Congratulations – your work is nearly finished! You have only a couple of steps left. To round up your research, compile a list of sources you have used. You should also indicate which parts you have cited in your text. That is what we are going to discuss in this section.
Simply put, a citation is used to refer back to the source material. You can cite anything, from an academic article or book to a video or even a viral tweet. This is how you give credit to the original author for their work.
There are a couple of ways to utilize citations in your work correctly:
- When employing quotations, summarizing, or paraphrasing in your text, use in-text citations . These must be placed directly in the body of the work in parenthesis, following the cited fragment. The in-text citations are always shortened, referring only to the author and the year of publishing. Sometimes, for larger works, the page number is also included.
- The full citations go into the references/works cited page at the end of your work. This is also sometimes referred to as a bibliography. These include various features, such as the title of the work, the author’s name, date of publishing, etc. Different citation styles require different elements to be mentioned. Make sure to double-check which one your institution expects you to use.
As we mentioned, while creating any academic work, you are expected to use references. You will have to choose a particular citation style or be directed to one by your instructor. This style will be used consistently throughout your work. Each one has its specific features and guidelines.
Here is what you can expect from them:
Alphabetized reference list. The authors’ names are inverted. In-text citations are provided in parenthesis. Sources page is titled “References.” | |
It always includes the same core elements. The elements follow in a specific order. In-text citations are provided in parenthesis. Sources page is titled “Works Cited.” | |
All words are capitalized (except for prepositions and articles). The titles of books and journals are italicized. In-text citations are provided in parenthesis. Sources page is titled “References.” | |
Source titles are written using sentence case capitalization. Book chapters and article titles are in single quotation marks. In-text citations are provided in parenthesis and are matched with the reference list. Sources page is titled “Reference List.” | |
In a title, only the first word is capitalized. The in-text sources are noted numerically. The numbers for the in-text citations match with the reference list. Sources page is titled “Reference List.” |
You can read more about each citation style if you follow the links for the related referencing guides .
In the previous sections, we have examined search engines, databases, and websites that you can use in your research. However, there are plenty of other online tools that can be very useful for your work process. We are going to talk about them here.
The following online tools can help you immensely while you research:
- ProCon.org is a website that allows you to consider several viewpoints on debatable issues. It features multiple controversial topics and lets the readers experience different sides of the arguments in a non-biased manner.
- Journal TOCs is a service that allows you to discover the newest academic papers as soon as they are available online. When writing about current events, it is essential to stay up-to-date, especially concerning research.
- EndNote is a multifunctional tool with many valuable features. It provides you with fast database search, automatic bibliography, and more. Research takes an incredible amount of time and effort, and this program is determined to save you time and resources.
- Paperpile is an extension for your browser and can be installed on your mobile devices as well. Tracking down and compiling your references can become a hassle – this is why Paperpile manages them for you.
- Zotero is another useful extension for your browser. It collects and organizes your research for you. It can also help you with the creation of your citations and allows you to collaborate with others.
- RefWorks is a tool that allows you to save your references from any webpage. It also helps you import them from online databases. You will be able to annotate and highlight your texts, as well as quickly search through them.
- Science Daily allows its readers to browse through all the latest news in several different spheres. Keeping up with updates in the scientific sphere is essential for any researcher, but especially those in the STEM fields. ScienceDaily is a must-have if you need to save time.
- DeepDyve gives you access to different current research articles for a limited time. A large number of valuable sources online are locked behind a paywall. It tends to be troublesome and expensive. DeepDyve allows you to check articles for free to see whether you need them for your research or not.
Thank you for your attention! We hope that you are now feeling more prepared to approach research in any sphere. Share this page with other students who you think could use our guide.
🔗 References
- Basic Steps in the Research Process – North Hennepin Community College
- How to Do Research A Step-By-Step Guide: Get Started – LibGuides at Elmira College
- Conducting Research: the Process – Research Guides at Washington University in St. Louis
- Research Process: Select your Topic – Nash Library & Student Learning Commons at Gannon University
- Developing Research Questions – Research & Learning Online, Monash University
- How to Write a Research Question – Guides at The Writing Center, George Mason University
- Research Process Step by Step: Identify Keywords – Subject and Course Guides at University of Texas at Arlington
- Start Your Research: Evaluate Your Info – Library Guides at University of California, Santa Cruz
- 19 Notetaking Tips for College Students – Post University
- Writing a Paper: Outlining – Academic Guides at Walden University
- How to Outline – Purdue Online Writing Lab, College of Liberal Arts, Purdue University
- What Is Research: Definition, Types, Methods & Examples – QuestionPro
- Thesis Statements – The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- 5 Steps to Create the Perfect Outline – Brandon Ramey, Herzing University
- How to Cite – University of Arizona Libraries
- The Research Process: How to Cite – LibGuides at Franklin & Marshall College
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Productive tips of information in advancing research skills. I recommend this content to all potential professionals. Thanks for your anticipatory contribution to all the budding academic and research communities.
This is strictly a rich content that goes along way in advancing the research prowess more importantly to the budding researchers. Thank you so much for this.
We are glad to hear your opinion! Thank you, Benard!
Basic Steps in the Research Process
The following steps outline a simple and effective strategy for writing a research paper. Depending on your familiarity with the topic and the challenges you encounter along the way, you may need to rearrange these steps.
Step 1: Identify and develop your topic
Selecting a topic can be the most challenging part of a research assignment. Since this is the very first step in writing a paper, it is vital that it be done correctly. Here are some tips for selecting a topic:
- Select a topic within the parameters set by the assignment. Many times your instructor will give you clear guidelines as to what you can and cannot write about. Failure to work within these guidelines may result in your proposed paper being deemed unacceptable by your instructor.
- Select a topic of personal interest to you and learn more about it. The research for and writing of a paper will be more enjoyable if you are writing about something that you find interesting.
- Select a topic for which you can find a manageable amount of information. Do a preliminary search of information sources to determine whether existing sources will meet your needs. If you find too much information, you may need to narrow your topic; if you find too little, you may need to broaden your topic.
- Be original. Your instructor reads hundreds of research papers every year, and many of them are on the same topics (topics in the news at the time, controversial issues, subjects for which there is ample and easily accessed information). Stand out from your classmates by selecting an interesting and off-the-beaten-path topic.
- Still can't come up with a topic to write about? See your instructor for advice.
Once you have identified your topic, it may help to state it as a question. For example, if you are interested in finding out about the epidemic of obesity in the American population, you might pose the question "What are the causes of obesity in America ?" By posing your subject as a question you can more easily identify the main concepts or keywords to be used in your research.
Step 2 : Do a preliminary search for information
Before beginning your research in earnest, do a preliminary search to determine whether there is enough information out there for your needs and to set the context of your research. Look up your keywords in the appropriate titles in the library's Reference collection (such as encyclopedias and dictionaries) and in other sources such as our catalog of books, periodical databases, and Internet search engines. Additional background information may be found in your lecture notes, textbooks, and reserve readings. You may find it necessary to adjust the focus of your topic in light of the resources available to you.
Step 3: Locate materials
With the direction of your research now clear to you, you can begin locating material on your topic. There are a number of places you can look for information:
If you are looking for books, do a subject search in One Search . A Keyword search can be performed if the subject search doesn't yield enough information. Print or write down the citation information (author, title,etc.) and the location (call number and collection) of the item(s). Note the circulation status. When you locate the book on the shelf, look at the books located nearby; similar items are always shelved in the same area. The Aleph catalog also indexes the library's audio-visual holdings.
Use the library's electronic periodical databases to find magazine and newspaper articles. Choose the databases and formats best suited to your particular topic; ask at the librarian at the Reference Desk if you need help figuring out which database best meets your needs. Many of the articles in the databases are available in full-text format.
Use search engines ( Google , Yahoo , etc.) and subject directories to locate materials on the Internet. Check the Internet Resources section of the NHCC Library web site for helpful subject links.
Step 4: Evaluate your sources
See the CARS Checklist for Information Quality for tips on evaluating the authority and quality of the information you have located. Your instructor expects that you will provide credible, truthful, and reliable information and you have every right to expect that the sources you use are providing the same. This step is especially important when using Internet resources, many of which are regarded as less than reliable.
Step 5: Make notes
Consult the resources you have chosen and note the information that will be useful in your paper. Be sure to document all the sources you consult, even if you there is a chance you may not use that particular source. The author, title, publisher, URL, and other information will be needed later when creating a bibliography.
Step 6: Write your paper
Begin by organizing the information you have collected. The next step is the rough draft, wherein you get your ideas on paper in an unfinished fashion. This step will help you organize your ideas and determine the form your final paper will take. After this, you will revise the draft as many times as you think necessary to create a final product to turn in to your instructor.
Step 7: Cite your sources properly
Give credit where credit is due; cite your sources.
Citing or documenting the sources used in your research serves two purposes: it gives proper credit to the authors of the materials used, and it allows those who are reading your work to duplicate your research and locate the sources that you have listed as references. The MLA and the APA Styles are two popular citation formats.
Failure to cite your sources properly is plagiarism. Plagiarism is avoidable!
Step 8: Proofread
The final step in the process is to proofread the paper you have created. Read through the text and check for any errors in spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Make sure the sources you used are cited properly. Make sure the message that you want to get across to the reader has been thoroughly stated.
Additional research tips:
- Work from the general to the specific -- find background information first, then use more specific sources.
- Don't forget print sources -- many times print materials are more easily accessed and every bit as helpful as online resources.
- The library has books on the topic of writing research papers at call number area LB 2369.
- If you have questions about the assignment, ask your instructor.
- If you have any questions about finding information in the library, ask the librarian.
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Research 101 (A How-to Guide): Step 1. Choose a topic
- Step 1. Choose a topic
- Step 2. Get background information
- Step 3. Create a search strategy
- Step 4. Find books and e-books
- Step 5. Find articles
- Step 6. Evaluate your sources
- Step 7. Cite your sources
Step 1. Choose a Topic
Choosing an interesting research topic can be challenging. This video tutorial will help you select and properly scope your topic by employing questioning, free writing, and mind mapping techniques so that you can formulate a research question.
Good Sources for Finding a Topic
- CQ Researcher This link opens in a new window Browse the "hot topics" on the right hand side for inspiration.
- 401 Prompts for Argumentative Writing, New York Times Great questions to consider for argumentative essays.
- ProCon.org Facts, news, and thousands of diverse opinions on controversial issues in a pro-con format.
- Room For Debate, New York Times This website, created by editorial staff from the New York Times, explores close to 1,500 news events and other timely issues. Knowledgeable outside contributors provide subject background and readers may contribute their own views. Great help for choosing a topic!
- US News & World Report: Debate Club Pro/Con arguments on current issues.
- Writing Prompts, New York Times New York Times Opinion articles that are geared toward students and invite comment.
Tips for Choosing a Topic
- Choose a topic that interests you!
- Pick a manageable topic, not too broad, not too narrow. Reading background info can help you choose and limit the scope of your topic.
- Review lecture notes and class readings for ideas.
- Check with your instructor to make sure your topic fits with the assignment.
Picking your topic IS research!
- Developing a Research Question Worksheet
Mind Mapping Tools
Mind mapping, a visual form of brainstorming, is an effective technique for developing a topic. Here are some free tools to create mind maps.
- Bubbl.us Free account allows you to save 3 mind maps, download as image or HTML, and share with others.
- Coggle Sign in with your Google account to create maps that you can download as PDF or PNG or share with others.
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- Next: Step 2. Get background information >>
- Last Updated: Jul 29, 2024 2:32 PM
- URL: https://libguides.depaul.edu/research101
Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts
Research: Where to Begin
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Research isn't something that only scientists and professors do. Any time you use sources to investigate claims or reach new conclusions, you are performing research. Research happens in virtually all fields, so it’s vitally important to know how to conduct research and navigate through source material regardless of your professional or academic role.
Choosing and Narrowing Your Research Topic
Before beginning the process of looking for sources, it’s important to choose a research topic that is specific enough to explore in-depth. If your focus is too broad, it will be difficult to find sources that back up what you’re trying to say.
If your instructor gives you the flexibility to choose your own research topic, you might begin by brainstorming a list of topics that interest you ( click here to visit an OWL page that can help you get started brainstorming or prewriting ). Once you find something that grabs your attention, the next step is to narrow your topic to a manageable scope. Some ways to narrow your focus are by sub-topic, demographic, or time period.
For example, suppose that you want to research cancer treatments. Cancer treatment is a fairly broad topic, so you would be wise to at least consider narrowing your scope. For example, you could focus on a sub-topic of cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. However, these are still broad topics, so you might also narrow your topic to a narrower sub-topic or even examine how these topics relate to a specific demographic or time period. In the end, you might decide to research how radiation therapy for women over fifty has changed in the past twenty years. In sum, having a specific idea of what you want to research helps you find a topic that feels more manageable.
Writing Your Research Question
Writing your research topic as a question helps you focus your topic in a clear and concise way. It ensure that your topic is arguable. While not all research papers have to offer an explicit argument, many do.
For the above example, you might phrase your research question like this: "How has radiation therapy changed in the past twenty years for women over fifty?" Of course, phrasing this topic as a question assumes that the research has, in fact, changed. Reading your sources (or, to begin with, at least summaries and abstracts of those sources) will help you formulate a research question that makes sense.
Knowing What Types of Sources You Need
Depending on the type of research you’re doing, you may need to use different types of sources. Research is usually divided into scholarly and popular, and primary and secondary. For more information on specific details about these types of sources, visit our "Where to Begin" page in our "Evaluating Sources" subsection. This subsection contains additional pages that explore various kinds of sources (like, e.g., internet sources) in more detail.
Asking Productive Questions
Before you begin your research, you should ask yourself questions that help narrow your search parameters.
What kind of information are you looking for?
Different types of research will require different sources. It’s important to know what kinds of sources your research demands. Ask whether you need facts or opinions, news reports, research studies, statistics and data, personal reflections, archival research, etc. Restricting yourself to only the most relevant kinds of sources will make the research process seem less daunting.
Where do you need to look for your research?
Your research topic will also dictate where you find your sources. This extends beyond simply whether you use the internet or a print source. For example, if you are searching for information on a current event, a well-regarded newspaper like the New York Times or Wall Street Journal could be a useful source. If you are searching for statistics on some aspect of the U.S. population, then you might want to start with government documents, such as census reports. While much high-level academic research relies mainly on the sorts of academic journal articles and scholarly books that can be found in university libraries, depending the nature of your research project, you may need to look elsewhere.
How much information do you need?
Different research projects require different numbers of sources. For example, if you need to address both sides of a controversial issue, you may need to find more sources than if you were pursuing a non-controversial topic. Be sure to speak with your instructor if you are unclear on how many sources you will be expected to use.
How timely does your research need to be?
Depending on your research topic, the timeliness of your source may or may not matter. For example, if you are looking into recent changes in a specific scientific field, you would want the most up-to-date research. However, if you were researching the War of 1812, you might benefit from finding primary sources written during that time period.
- Boston University Libraries
Choosing a Research Topic
- Starting Points
Where to Find Ideas
Persuasive paper assignments, dissertations and theses.
- From Idea to Search
- Make It Manageable
If you are starting a research project and would like some help choosing the best topic, this guide is for you. Start by asking yourself these questions:
What does your instructor require? What interests you? What information sources can support your research? What is doable in the time you have?
While keeping these questions in mind, find suggestions in this guide to select a topic, turn that topic into a database search, and make your research manageable. You will also find more information in our About the Research Process guide.
Whether your instructor has given a range of possible topics to you or you have to come up with a topic on your own, you could benefit from these activities:
Consult Course Materials If a reading, film, or other resource is selected by your instructor, the subject of it is important to the course. You can often find inspiration for a paper in these materials.
- Is a broad topic presented? You can focus on a specific aspect of that topic. For example, if your class viewed a film on poverty in the United States, you could look at poverty in a specific city or explore how poverty affects Americans of a specific gender, ethnic group, or age range.
- Are experts presented, quoted, or cited? Look up their work in BU Libraries Search or Google Scholar .
Use Background Sources If you've identified one or more topics you'd like to investigate further, look them up in an encyclopedia, handbook, or other background information source. Here are some good places to start.
Online version of Encyclopædia Britannica along Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary and Thesaurus, magazines and periodicals and other reference sources.
- Oxford Reference This link opens in a new window Published by Oxford University Press, it is a fully-indexed, cross-searchable database containing dictionaries, language reference and subject reference works.
Explore the Scholarly Literature Ask your instructor or a librarian to guide you to the top journals in the field you're studying. Scanning the tables of contents within these journals will provide some inspiration for your research project. As a bonus, each of the articles in these journals will have a bibliography that will lead you to related articles, books, and other materials.
Ask a Librarian We are here to help you! You can request a consultation or contact us by email or through our chat service . We can help you identify what interests you, where to find more about it, and how to narrow the topic to something manageable in the time you have.
If your assignment entails persuading a reader to adopt a position, you can conduct your research in the same way you would with any other research project. The biggest mistake you can make, however, is choosing a position before you start your research. Instead, the information you consult should inform your position. Researching before choosing a position is also much easier; you will be able to explore all sides of a topic rather than limiting yourself to one.
If you would like examples of debates on controversial topics, try these resources:
Covers the most current and controversial issues of the day with summaries, pros and cons, bibliographies and more. Provides reporting and analysis on issues in the news, including issues relating to health, social trends, criminal justice, international affairs, education, the environment, technology, and the economy.
- New York Times: Room for Debate Selections from the New York Times' opinion pages.
- ProCon.org Created by Britannica, this site exposes readers to two sides of timely arguments. Each article includes a bibliography of suggested resources.
If you are writing a dissertation or thesis, you will find more specialized information at our Guide for Writers of Theses and Dissertations .
If you would like to find published dissertations and theses, please use this database:
This database contains indexing and abstracts of American doctoral dissertations accepted at accredited institutions since 1861 and a selection from other countries. Masters level theses are included selectively.
- Next: From Idea to Search >>
- Last Updated: Jul 16, 2024 9:04 AM
- URL: https://library.bu.edu/choosing-a-topic
15 Steps to Good Research
- Define and articulate a research question (formulate a research hypothesis). How to Write a Thesis Statement (Indiana University)
- Identify possible sources of information in many types and formats. Georgetown University Library's Research & Course Guides
- Judge the scope of the project.
- Reevaluate the research question based on the nature and extent of information available and the parameters of the research project.
- Select the most appropriate investigative methods (surveys, interviews, experiments) and research tools (periodical indexes, databases, websites).
- Plan the research project. Writing Anxiety (UNC-Chapel Hill) Strategies for Academic Writing (SUNY Empire State College)
- Retrieve information using a variety of methods (draw on a repertoire of skills).
- Refine the search strategy as necessary.
- Write and organize useful notes and keep track of sources. Taking Notes from Research Reading (University of Toronto) Use a citation manager: Zotero or Refworks
- Evaluate sources using appropriate criteria. Evaluating Internet Sources
- Synthesize, analyze and integrate information sources and prior knowledge. Georgetown University Writing Center
- Revise hypothesis as necessary.
- Use information effectively for a specific purpose.
- Understand such issues as plagiarism, ownership of information (implications of copyright to some extent), and costs of information. Georgetown University Honor Council Copyright Basics (Purdue University) How to Recognize Plagiarism: Tutorials and Tests from Indiana University
- Cite properly and give credit for sources of ideas. MLA Bibliographic Form (7th edition, 2009) MLA Bibliographic Form (8th edition, 2016) Turabian Bibliographic Form: Footnote/Endnote Turabian Bibliographic Form: Parenthetical Reference Use a citation manager: Zotero or Refworks
Adapted from the Association of Colleges and Research Libraries "Objectives for Information Literacy Instruction" , which are more complete and include outcomes. See also the broader "Information Literacy Competency Standards for Higher Education."
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- Knowledge Base
- Starting the research process
How to Choose a Dissertation Topic | 8 Steps to Follow
Published on November 11, 2022 by Shona McCombes and Tegan George. Revised on November 20, 2023.
Choosing your dissertation topic is the first step in making sure your research goes as smoothly as possible. When choosing a topic, it’s important to consider:
- Your institution and department’s requirements
- Your areas of knowledge and interest
- The scientific, social, or practical relevance
- The availability of data and resources
- The timeframe of your dissertation
- The relevance of your topic
You can follow these steps to begin narrowing down your ideas.
Table of contents
Step 1: check the requirements, step 2: choose a broad field of research, step 3: look for books and articles, step 4: find a niche, step 5: consider the type of research, step 6: determine the relevance, step 7: make sure it’s plausible, step 8: get your topic approved, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about dissertation topics.
The very first step is to check your program’s requirements. This determines the scope of what it is possible for you to research.
- Is there a minimum and maximum word count?
- When is the deadline?
- Should the research have an academic or a professional orientation?
- Are there any methodological conditions? Do you have to conduct fieldwork, or use specific types of sources?
Some programs have stricter requirements than others. You might be given nothing more than a word count and a deadline, or you might have a restricted list of topics and approaches to choose from. If in doubt about what is expected of you, always ask your supervisor or department coordinator.
Start by thinking about your areas of interest within the subject you’re studying. Examples of broad ideas include:
- Twentieth-century literature
- Economic history
- Health policy
To get a more specific sense of the current state of research on your potential topic, skim through a few recent issues of the top journals in your field. Be sure to check out their most-cited articles in particular. For inspiration, you can also search Google Scholar , subject-specific databases , and your university library’s resources.
As you read, note down any specific ideas that interest you and make a shortlist of possible topics. If you’ve written other papers, such as a 3rd-year paper or a conference paper, consider how those topics can be broadened into a dissertation.
After doing some initial reading, it’s time to start narrowing down options for your potential topic. This can be a gradual process, and should get more and more specific as you go. For example, from the ideas above, you might narrow it down like this:
- Twentieth-century literature Twentieth-century Irish literature Post-war Irish poetry
- Economic history European economic history German labor union history
- Health policy Reproductive health policy Reproductive rights in South America
All of these topics are still broad enough that you’ll find a huge amount of books and articles about them. Try to find a specific niche where you can make your mark, such as: something not many people have researched yet, a question that’s still being debated, or a very current practical issue.
At this stage, make sure you have a few backup ideas — there’s still time to change your focus. If your topic doesn’t make it through the next few steps, you can try a different one. Later, you will narrow your focus down even more in your problem statement and research questions .
There are many different types of research , so at this stage, it’s a good idea to start thinking about what kind of approach you’ll take to your topic. Will you mainly focus on:
- Collecting original data (e.g., experimental or field research)?
- Analyzing existing data (e.g., national statistics, public records, or archives)?
- Interpreting cultural objects (e.g., novels, films, or paintings)?
- Comparing scholarly approaches (e.g., theories, methods, or interpretations)?
Many dissertations will combine more than one of these. Sometimes the type of research is obvious: if your topic is post-war Irish poetry, you will probably mainly be interpreting poems. But in other cases, there are several possible approaches. If your topic is reproductive rights in South America, you could analyze public policy documents and media coverage, or you could gather original data through interviews and surveys .
You don’t have to finalize your research design and methods yet, but the type of research will influence which aspects of the topic it’s possible to address, so it’s wise to consider this as you narrow down your ideas.
It’s important that your topic is interesting to you, but you’ll also have to make sure it’s academically, socially or practically relevant to your field.
- Academic relevance means that the research can fill a gap in knowledge or contribute to a scholarly debate in your field.
- Social relevance means that the research can advance our understanding of society and inform social change.
- Practical relevance means that the research can be applied to solve concrete problems or improve real-life processes.
The easiest way to make sure your research is relevant is to choose a topic that is clearly connected to current issues or debates, either in society at large or in your academic discipline. The relevance must be clearly stated when you define your research problem .
Before you make a final decision on your topic, consider again the length of your dissertation, the timeframe in which you have to complete it, and the practicalities of conducting the research.
Will you have enough time to read all the most important academic literature on this topic? If there’s too much information to tackle, consider narrowing your focus even more.
Will you be able to find enough sources or gather enough data to fulfil the requirements of the dissertation? If you think you might struggle to find information, consider broadening or shifting your focus.
Do you have to go to a specific location to gather data on the topic? Make sure that you have enough funding and practical access.
Last but not least, will the topic hold your interest for the length of the research process? To stay motivated, it’s important to choose something you’re enthusiastic about!
Most programmes will require you to submit a brief description of your topic, called a research prospectus or proposal .
Remember, if you discover that your topic is not as strong as you thought it was, it’s usually acceptable to change your mind and switch focus early in the dissertation process. Just make sure you have enough time to start on a new topic, and always check with your supervisor or department.
If you want to know more about the research process , methodology , research bias , or statistics , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.
Methodology
- Sampling methods
- Simple random sampling
- Stratified sampling
- Cluster sampling
- Likert scales
- Reproducibility
Statistics
- Null hypothesis
- Statistical power
- Probability distribution
- Effect size
- Poisson distribution
Research bias
- Optimism bias
- Cognitive bias
- Implicit bias
- Hawthorne effect
- Anchoring bias
- Explicit bias
Formulating a main research question can be a difficult task. Overall, your question should contribute to solving the problem that you have defined in your problem statement .
However, it should also fulfill criteria in three main areas:
- Researchability
- Feasibility and specificity
- Relevance and originality
All research questions should be:
- Focused on a single problem or issue
- Researchable using primary and/or secondary sources
- Feasible to answer within the timeframe and practical constraints
- Specific enough to answer thoroughly
- Complex enough to develop the answer over the space of a paper or thesis
- Relevant to your field of study and/or society more broadly
You can assess information and arguments critically by asking certain questions about the source. You can use the CRAAP test , focusing on the currency , relevance , authority , accuracy , and purpose of a source of information.
Ask questions such as:
- Who is the author? Are they an expert?
- Why did the author publish it? What is their motivation?
- How do they make their argument? Is it backed up by evidence?
A dissertation prospectus or proposal describes what or who you plan to research for your dissertation. It delves into why, when, where, and how you will do your research, as well as helps you choose a type of research to pursue. You should also determine whether you plan to pursue qualitative or quantitative methods and what your research design will look like.
It should outline all of the decisions you have taken about your project, from your dissertation topic to your hypotheses and research objectives , ready to be approved by your supervisor or committee.
Note that some departments require a defense component, where you present your prospectus to your committee orally.
The best way to remember the difference between a research plan and a research proposal is that they have fundamentally different audiences. A research plan helps you, the researcher, organize your thoughts. On the other hand, a dissertation proposal or research proposal aims to convince others (e.g., a supervisor, a funding body, or a dissertation committee) that your research topic is relevant and worthy of being conducted.
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Library & Learning Commons
- Search for sources
- APA style guide
How to do Research for College Assignments
- Choose & Develop Your Research Topic
- Introduction to the Research Process
- Search Library Resources
- Evaluate Your Sources
- Use & Cite Your Sources This link opens in a new window
#wrapbox6119144 .headerbox { display: none; }
- Form Questions
- Understand the Assignment
- Explore Background Information
- Build a Concept/Mind Map
- Create a Working Thesis
STEP ONE : The first step to research is developing a topic that is not too broad or narrow in scope . To begin, think about:
• what topic(s) interest you?
• what questions do you have about the topic(s)?
• what you would like to learn more about?
STEP TWO : To narrow or broaden the topic , add or remove a time period, place, person(s), event or subtopic:
: Topic is too general and broad to address through a short piece of writing • The Metis Nation in Saskatchewan • Add subtopic and time period: The politics of the Metis in 19th-century Saskatchewan • Add person(s), event, and place: Louis Riel and the Metis rebellion in Saskatchewan | : Topic is too specific and narrow • The representation of animals in sculpture by two-spirited Metis artists from Saskatchewan in the late 19th century • Remove subtopic, person(s), and time period: Visual art of the Metis in Saskatchewan • Remove place and expand topic and time period: The representation of politics in visual art of two-spirited Metis in the late 19th and early 20th centuries |
STEP THREE : Restate the topic using "who, what, where, why, when, and how" questions . For example:
• Why did Louis Riel lead a rebellion of the Metis Nation in Saskatchewan?
• How are politics represented in visual art of Aboriginal peoples in Canada?
Deciphering your Assignment Tutorial
This video tutorial will show you how to deconstruct an assignment to its basic parts and identify appropriate sources to complete it successfully:
When beginning a research project, it's helpful to explore the background of a topic to familiarize yourself with key concepts and issues before forming an argument.
One way you could learn about your topic and narrow your focus is by finding a Wikipedia article on the subject, then skimming its table of contents and reading that small section of interest. Doing this will help you go from the general topic of "climate change" to a narrower topic, like "How have rising sea levels resulting from climate change impacted island nations?"
Some good sources to help you learn about and narrow your topic include:
• Chapter sections from course textbooks
• Newspaper articles
• Short webpages found by searching Google
• Short videos by educational or government organizations
• Wikipedia and encyclopedia entries
• Abstracts (i.e., brief summaries) from academic articles
• Library databases with introductory and reference information, such as those linked below
When doing background research, remember the following:
• Use tables of contents and section headings to identify specific sections you would like to learn more about
• Quickly read (skim) short sections of information, such as article abstracts, specific sections, and short entries
• Read an entire article, chapter, report, or long webpage from top to bottom
• Go straight to the library catalogue and filter by peer review
- Canadian Reference Centre This link opens in a new window This database provides access to background information and current events in Canada, including international content for research on Canada's global involvement.
- Science Reference Center Science Reference Center is a teaching and learning resource aimed at high school and lower undergraduate students with academic and popular content in biology, chemistry, environment and ecology, math, physics, and the life sciences.
- World History in Context From the ancient world to today, World History in Context contains primary source documents, maps, other archival materials, reference entries, and articles on the subject of world history.
After you have selected and developed your research topic and question, you can use a concept map to use as a guide while searching for information.
Also called mind maps, a concept map is a visual way of representing how your ideas and important concepts are connected and interrelated.
Why build a concept map? Because it can help you:
• Brainstorm new concepts and expand your terminology
• Understand and process the relationships between concepts
• Plan and organize an essay outline or research paper
• Study for exams
Follow the links below to build your own concept or mind map:
- Visu Words: An Online Graphical Dictionary
- Bubbl.Us: Online Brainstorming Tool
- Mindmeister: Mind Mapping and Brainstorming Software
A working thesis is a "rough draft" of your thesis that provides initial direction for the essay but will be adjusted and changed as you research and write.
As you gather and read more sources, you will find evidence that requires you to modify the working thesis. To form a working thesis, ask questions that trigger a debatable claim.
IMAGES
VIDEO
COMMENTS
3. Look up general information about the topic. Once you've got an idea for a more narrow topic you want to focus on, do an online search to see generally what information is out there about it. At this point, pay attention to the amount of information available and the issues raised by some of that information.
Step 1: Choose your topic. First you have to come up with some ideas. Your thesis or dissertation topic can start out very broad. Think about the general area or field you're interested in—maybe you already have specific research interests based on classes you've taken, or maybe you had to consider your topic when applying to graduate school and writing a statement of purpose.
Science & Tech. How to Research: 5 Steps in the Research Process. Written by MasterClass. Last updated: Mar 18, 2022 • 3 min read. Research is an essential process to keep yourself informed on any topic with reliable sources of information. Articles.
A good way to start broad is to search Google for general terms related to your topic. If you're researching the difference between sunflowers and tulips, then you should learn a bit of information about each flower before going deeper. Of course, Wikipedia is also a fantastic place to begin your research.
Select a topic. Choosing an interesting research topic is your first challenge. Here are some tips: Choose a topic that you are interested in! The research process is more relevant if you care about your topic. Narrow your topic to something manageable. If your topic is too broad, you will find too much information and not be able to focus.
3. Start broad and narrow your focus. Once you have a general topic that interests you, begin by reading widely about it. Write down the ideas, information, and sources that interest you the most. Then, review your notes to start refining your topic into a precise, narrow research focus. [3]
Whatever your field or discipline, the best advice to give on identifying a research topic is to choose something that you find really interesting. You will be spending an enormous amount of time with your topic, you need to be invested. Over the course of your research design, proposal and actually conducting your study, you may feel like you ...
Three Approaches for Developing a Topic. Approach #1: List Key Words of Interest. Make lists of concepts and topics you find interesting, as well as lists of related words and synonyms. These can serve as your key search terms. Concept 1: Concept 2: Look For:
Start writing the middle, or body, of your paper. Get your ideas down, then see if you need to do any research. Since your introduction and conclusion summarize your paper, it's best to write those last. [8] Include an in-text citation for everything that needs one, even in your initial rough draft.
Developing a good research question can sometimes be the most difficult part of the research process. If you are struggling, follow the links below. Select a topic; Develop research questions; Identify keywords; Find background information; Refine your topic
Keep your focus on the main arguments to acquaint yourself with the concepts. Step 2: Try narrowing down your topic. It is a lot more effective to target a single dimension of a broader topic than to tackle everything. To do this, try focusing on a particular aspect, such as a specific location or time period.
A strong research topic comprises three important qualities: originality, value and feasibility.. Originality - a good topic explores an original area or takes a novel angle on an existing area of study.; Value - a strong research topic provides value and makes a contribution, either academically or practically.; Feasibility - a good research topic needs to be practical and manageable ...
To recap, the "Big 5" assessment criteria include: Topic originality and novelty. Value and significance. Access to data and equipment. Time requirements. Ethical compliance. Be sure to grab a copy of our free research topic evaluator sheet here to fast-track your topic selection process.
The following steps outline a simple and effective strategy for writing a research paper. Depending on your familiarity with the topic and the challenges you encounter along the way, you may need to rearrange these steps. Step 1: Identify and develop your topic. Selecting a topic can be the most challenging part of a research assignment.
Step 1. Choose a Topic. Choosing an interesting research topic can be challenging. This video tutorial will help you select and properly scope your topic by employing questioning, free writing, and mind mapping techniques so that you can formulate a research question. Developing a Research Question.
Writing Your Research Question. Writing your research topic as a question helps you focus your topic in a clear and concise way. It ensure that your topic is arguable. While not all research papers have to offer an explicit argument, many do. For the above example, you might phrase your research question like this: "How has radiation therapy ...
If your assignment entails persuading a reader to adopt a position, you can conduct your research in the same way you would with any other research project. The biggest mistake you can make, however, is choosing a position before you start your research. Instead, the information you consult should inform your position.
Research Help Email: [email protected] For help registering a device, password reset and more: EC IT Resources and Services Next: Step 1: Develop a Topic >>
Judge the scope of the project. Reevaluate the research question based on the nature and extent of information available and the parameters of the research project. Select the most appropriate investigative methods (surveys, interviews, experiments) and research tools (periodical indexes, databases, websites). Plan the research project.
Step 1: Check the requirements. Step 2: Choose a broad field of research. Step 3: Look for books and articles. Step 4: Find a niche. Step 5: Consider the type of research. Step 6: Determine the relevance. Step 7: Make sure it's plausible. Step 8: Get your topic approved. Other interesting articles.
When beginning a research project, it's helpful to explore the background of a topic to familiarize yourself with key concepts and issues before forming an argument.. One way you could learn about your topic and narrow your focus is by finding a Wikipedia article on the subject, then skimming its table of contents and reading that small section of interest.
The 7 Steps of the Research Process. Research can feel overwhelming, but it's more manageable when you break it down into steps. In my experience, the research process has seven main steps: Find a topic. Refine your topic. Find key sources. Take notes on your sources. Create your paper or presentation.
Step 2: Brainstorm Your Topics. You aren't doing research at this stage yet. You are only trying to make considerations to determine which topic will suit your research assignment. The brainstorming stage isn't difficult at all. It should take only a couple of hours or a few days depending on how you approach.
Defining a Topic - SAGE Research Methods. Develop My Research Idea - Academic Writer. Note: You MUST create an Academic Writer account AND start a paper in order to access this tool. Once you have done so, open a paper and click Research Lab Book in the left navigation menu. The Process for Developing Questions - ASC Guide.
Before selecting a topic or starting your research, make sure you understand your assignment. Consider: Have you been assigned a topic or can you pick your own? How many pages/words do you need to write? How long is your presentation? Do you need to include specific types of sources (e.g. scholarly journal, book, etc.)?
Define a Topic. Effective research takes time. This page will help students: Understand assignment requirements. Select a topic for their research paper. Formulate a research question. Narrow or broaden a research question. Determine keywords and brainstorm search terms. If you are unsure about what is expected about your assignment, consult ...
Step 5: Narrow down, then evaluate. By this stage, you should have a healthy list of research topics. Step away from the ideation and thinking for a few days, clear your mind. The key is to get some distance from your ideas, so that you can sit down with your list and review it with a more objective view.
The differences that do exist are modest. About four-in-ten men in this group (41%) say a major reason is that it just never happened, compared with 36% of women. Men are also more likely than women to point to concerns about the state of the world (15% vs. 10%) and not being able to afford to raise a child (14% vs. 9%).