How to Choose a Topic

                               
It should be something that interests you, something you are curious about and that has some kind of relevance or significance for 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. Too much information on a topic usually means that the topic is too broad. On the other hand, lack of information indicates that the topic is too narrow. If the topic is too broad, 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

  Topic is too narrow

• The Beatles

  Topic is O.K.

If you are looking for a current topic, a social issue, or current trends, go to the Reference Section of the Library and browse the indexes of the following resources:

• CQ Researcher
• Issues and Controversies on File
• 10,000 Ideas for Term Papers, Projects, Reports and Speeches
• Congressional Digest [Go to the Periodicals Section]
• Opposing Viewpoints

When browsing these sources, notice how the topics are narrowed.

Online Resources

• Go V.V. Library's Web tutorial Starting Points.
• Visit the following sites under Current Issues- Hot Topics
  • Best Information on the Net: Hot Paper Topics.
  • Browse Topics.
  • Documents In The News.
  • Economic Policy Institute.

   

• Use the following ONLINE DATABASES:

  CQ Researcher [Click "Browse by Topic." Look at the new articles posted.]

  Opposing Viewpoints

  Sirs Researcher [Click on "Database Features." Click on "New Content and Hot Topics."]

  Some other tips:

• Make sure the topic meets the requirements of the assignment. Ask your instructor for approval.
• Make sure you have enough time to gather the information on your topic.
• Check if there are specialized encyclopedias on your topic.
• Check if there is enough information available on your topic.
• Check for synonyms or other terminology you could use for your topic.
• If you have questions, consult a librarian.

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Last Updated: Rev July 2007

Created and maintained by Sahyly Martinez

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URL: http:/www.epcc.edu/vvlib/handouts/choose topic.htm