Step 2: Choose a Topic
Why?
Choosing a good topic makes a huge difference in how well your writing process will go. A good topic meets the requirements of the assignment, intrigues you, and leads to an interesting thesis statement that can be supported by reputable sources.
How?
- Get ideas
- Opposing Viewpoints Resource Center offers a list of popular current controversial topics. Opposing Viewpoints is a particularly good source for finding pro/con arguments.
- Idea generator from Old Dominion University
- Santa Ana College's Controversial Issues site
- St. Ambrose University's Hot Topics site
- Gather background information to focus your topic
- Subject-specific encyclopedias have a wealth of background information that can provide you with a strong foundation upon which to build your research.
- CQ Researcher is a good source for finding information about contemporary social, political and economic issues. CQ Researcher includes background information about each issue. (Please logout when finished as we only have 5 simultaneous users.)
- Identify your initial thesis statement
- Brainstorming handout from UNC
- Thesis statement handout from UNC
- Identify key concepts and related terms to improve your searches.