Once you've selected a topic, it's important to ask yourself the following questions:
Is my topic too broad?
| Too Broad | Manageable |
|---|---|
| Domestic Abuse |
|
Is my topic too narrow?
| Too Narrow | Manageable |
|---|---|
| SnapChat use and its effects on anorexic teenage girls |
|
NOTE: Manageable research topics are assignment dependent. Consider the length and depth of your research paper. A topic that is too narrow for a first year student may be acceptable for a graduate student.
Brainstorm ideas and related topics. Ask yourself Who, What, When, Where, and Why?
These questions can help you narrow a topic that is too broad as well as broaden a topic that is too narrow.
The Mind Map brainstorming tool in Credo Reference can help you explore your topic, find related terms, expand or narrow your topic.
