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Starting Points

Choosing a Topic

Your research paper should be about something that interests you, something you are curious about and that has some kind of relevance or significance to you. Remember, you will be dedicating a lot of time to this topic! Be creative and flexible with your topic. Sometimes topics are too broad or too narrow. If the topic is too big, it is better to focus on some interesting aspect of it. If it is too specific, it may be difficult to find enough information.

Rock Music - Topic is too broad
Rock Music in El Paso in the 1960's - Topic is too narrow

If you are looking for a current topic, a social issue, or current trends, consult these links:

• V.V. Library Current Issues-Hot Topics
• Hot Paper Topics
• Idea Generator
• Global: Ideas: Bank
• Google- Issues Directory

In Reference (at V.V. Library):

Specialized Encyclopedias

Ask a Librarian to show you a specialized encyclopedia on a subject area that interests you. Some examples:

• Encyclopedia of American War Films
• Encyclopedia of Crime and Justice
• Encyclopedia of Family Life
• Encyclopedia of Gun Control and Gun Rights

In Periodicals:

• CQ Researcher [Periodical. Kept on shelf #13 in the Reference Area]
• Issues and Controversies on File [Periodical. Kept on shelf #13 in the Reference Area]
  Congressional Digest [Periodical. Current issue displayed on periodicals shelve; back issues, kept behind the Periodicals Desk.]
• Read current editorials from El Paso Times or the New York Times.

Use some of the Online Databases, for example:

• CQ Researcher
• eLibrary [Click on the 'Topics' tab located on the top of the page.]
• Opposing Viewpoints
• Sirs Researcher [Click on the right where it says 'Leading Issues.']

In Circulation:

• Current Controversies
• Opposing Viewpoints
• 10,000 Ideas for Term Papers, Projects, Reports and Speeches

 

When browsing these sources, take note of the following:

• How the topic is narrowed?
• Is there enough information available on your topic?
• Does your instructor approve your subject?
  
  

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Last Updated: June 2008

Created and maintained by Sahyly Martinez

Send Your Comments to: askalib

URL: http://www.epcc.edu/vvlib/Distance2/topic2.htm