The careful choice of a subject is important. Here are some pointers to help you get started and avoid some common problems.

Time

Give yourself time to think, do your research, and read and process the information you find. Do not underestimate the time you need to research your topic. It may take you one hour of research for every page in length your paper is required to be. For example, a 6 page paper may require 6 hours of research before you start writing, a 10 page paper 10 hours.

Interest

Choose a topic that interests you or that you have a personal connection with and is within the bounds of your assignment. Everything will seem to go faster and easier if you’re interested in the subject.

No ideas? Try browsing among current newspapers or journals for what catches your interest. Try browsing in a database like Infotrac, or surf the web. Any hobbies? Issues in your major? Career ideas? Any current issues or books grab you?

Scope of Topic

• Avoid choosing a topic that is too broad—you will be swamped with information.
• Maybe you can focus or choose a sub-topic?
• You can tell your topic is too general if 1) you find a large number of books on that topic in the online catalog 2) there are too many articles in Infotrac or other database
• TIPS ON NARROWING YOUR TOPIC:
• Look up your topic in the online catalog, a general encyclopedia, or Infotrac. Then look at some of the sub headings (or subdivisions in Infotrac) or see also references. These may be more specific topics.
• You may also limit your topic to a certain geographic area or period of time or even according to historical, social, cultural or political significance. Example, “Open Space and Early Childhood Education in the 1960s.”

Preliminary Search

Once you have chosen a topic that seems appropriate, do a preliminary search for material. As you begin to look, start refining your search. Take note of the vocabulary used.

Preliminary Reading

Look for an introduction or overview of your subject. Skim a book that covers your topic.

Central Idea & Structure

Once you have a better handle on your subject, you can begin to develop a focus or point of view. Finally, develop an outline or framework to guide your work.

Research

Try to choose one or two sources in each of the following formats: books, periodicals, articles from databases, other online sources.

Remember, the library staff is here to help. Just ask!

Perkins Library, MassBay Community College 8/2000