Controversial Topics: Getting Started

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The Library's Controversial Topics Display includes hundreds of books on a wide variety of subjects.  Many students browse this collection to find topic ideas.  Each book covers controversial subjects and discusses various viewpoints.

You've been assigned a paper in which you need to discuss a controversial topic.  How will you select a subject to write about?  Here are some helpful hints:

• Write about something you find interesting.  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.
  
  
• Don't pick a topic that's too broad...or too narrow.  Your instrucor 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.
  
  
• Make sure you understand the assignment.  Your instructor may allow you to select any topic you like, or she might require you to select a specific topic within a more general concept.  You may also be required to select a topic that affects the local area.  Read your assignment sheet thoroughly before you begin your research.
  
  
• Need more Help?  Try this Idea Generator from Old Dominion University.
  
  
• Ask Us!  If you're having trouble, please contact an NWACC Reference Librarian here.  We can help you get started.