The first step to writing a research paper is to choose a research topic. It may seem very easy but this is a very crucial and challenging step that can make or break your chances of getting that A. A good research topic is something that can demonstrate your skills, contribute to the field and address a real-world problem. But how do you find such a topic? What are the things that you should look for? To answer these questions we have come up with some tips that will guide you through the process.
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Check the Requirements
The first step to finding the right research topic is to check your assignment requirements. This will help you determine the scope of what you can research about. Check for things such as:
- What is the minimum and maximum word count?
- When is the deadline?
- Are there any methodological conditions?
There might be more strict criteria for some academic fields than for others. You might only be given a word count and a deadline, or you might be given a restricted list of topics and approaches to choose from. If you are confused about what is expected of you, don’t hesitate to ask your instructor.
Identify Your Interest Then Look for Gaps
To find the right topic it is important that you identify what interests you the most within your area of study. Try and remember the topic that sparked your interest or something you have experienced personally. Make a list of all the potential ideas and keywords that relate to the topics you have shortlisted. Then, start looking them up one by one and look for any gaps, controversies or unresolved questions. Think about how you can fill on those gaps or challenge the existing views with your own perspective and evidence. Now choose a topic that has enough material on it that you can use as evidence.
Get More Specific and Develop a Research Question
Once you have selected a topic, it is time to narrow it down and refine it to be more specific. A topic that is too broad or vague can be difficult to research, justify and write. Once you have done some background research you can develop a research question or a thesis statement that summarises the main purpose, argument or goal of your research. The following criteria can help you narrow down your topic and in developing a research question:
- Scope. You can specify your population, region, time range, or factors to narrow your scope.
- Relevance. Your topic’s importance and significance to your field and society are referred to as its relevance. By describing how your topic tackles a current issue, problem, or gap, you can increase its relevance.
- Originality. It refers to the originality and contribution of your topic to your field of study. By highlighting the ways in which your topic builds on previously known knowledge, you can demonstrate its originality.
- Feasibility. It refers to the practicality and availability of the topic you have chosen. By taking into account your available resources, skills, time, and data access, you can determine your feasibility.
Be Open to Feedback
You may find it helpful to get feedback on your topic and research question from colleagues, advisors, or other professionals in your field of study. They might give you insightful information or suggest different ideas to you. This might assist you in refining your research question and ensuring that your research is on the right track.
Create an Outline
All that is left to do at this point is to begin writing your research paper. All you have to do is conduct extensive research on different aspects of your paper and then create an outline of what you want to convey with your research. Write a short answer to define your research question and you are ready to go.
Remember, your topic is not set in stone and may evolve or change into something completely different as you discover new information. Be flexible and open-minded to the changing circumstances and requirements of your research. The most important part is to keep yourself motivated during the research process. Don’t get discouraged if you come across some obstacles, just ask for help when you feel you are in over your head.
Conclusion
Choosing a research topic can be a challenging task, but by following the tips compiled in this blog you can find a research topic that is interesting, suits your skills and goals and can make a difference in your academic field and society.
