Before conducting research:
- Make sure you understand the assignment. Your instructor may allow you to select any topic you like, or they may require you to select a specific topic within a more general concept. Read your assignment sheet thoroughly before you begin your research.
- Avoid picking a topic that's too broad...or too narrow. Your instructor will probably set limitations for the length of your paper. If you pick a topic that's too general, you won't be able to adequately cover it in a few pages. If you select a topic that's too narrow, you may have trouble finding sources. This will prove frustrating for you and will make the assignment harder than it needs to be.
- Write about something that interests you. If you find a topic interesting, the research and writing process will be more enjoyable for you. This will come through in your paper and it'll be more enjoyable for your reader as well.
- Need more Help? Ask a Librarian!