How to Select a Research Topic

Selecting a research topic isn't easy. Your topic needs to be narrow and focused enough to be interesting, yet broad enough for you to find enough information. The steps below can help you choose a successful topic.

Before you start selecting your topic, make sure you know your instructor's requirements and the purpose of your research.

• Step One: Brainstorm Topic Ideas
• Step Two: Read General Background Information
• Step Three: Focus in on a Manageable Topic
• Step Four: List Useful Keywords for Later
• Step Five: Be Flexible
• Step Six: Define Your Topic as a Focused Research Question
• Step Seven: Research and Read More About Your Question
• Step Eight: Formulate a Thesis Statement
• Research Topic Examples

To access some of the databases linked to in the pages, you'll need a student ID or faculty/staff Library card.

Note: These pages are based on "Module 2: Selecting a Research Topic" from the Utah Academic Library Consortium (UALC) Navigator team.