Tip!
Choose a topic that interests you and will hold your attention. If you do, the research will be more enjoyable!
Topic Ideas
Can’t think of a topic to research?
- Scan your textbook.
- Peruse current magazines and newspapers.
- Browse encyclopedias.
- Look at the "hot topic" databases listed on this page.
- Surf the websites listed on the Controversial Issues guide.
- Discuss topics with your instructor, a librarian or a classmate.
The Research Assignment - Define the Task
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.)?
- When is the assignment due? How much time do you have to research?
- Is currency of information important?
When in doubt, consult with your instructor.
Hot Topic Databases
- Opposing Viewpoints in ContextProvides full text access to differing points of view on nearly 5,000 current social issues in the forms of primary source documents, articles, statistics, websites and multimedia.
- GREENR (Global Reference on the Environment, Energy, and Natural Resources)Includes full-text articles, case studies, interactive maps, streaming videos and more related to environmental and sustainability studies.