The first step in the research process is to identify and develop your topic.
After reviewing your assignment prompt, think broadly about which areas you would like to explore. When you have a broad area or two in mind, begin brainstorming some of the possible terms that are related to those areas and write them down. They don’t need to be complete thoughts, just some words that come up when you think about your research question.
Consider: What interests you? How does this relate to your assignment? What questions do you have about your topic? What would you like to learn more about?
- Example: For my English paper, I choose a topic related to the prison system in the United States. I brainstormed the following words: ''prisons", "prison system", "incarceration", 'United States", "America" to explore further in the next step of the research process.
Tip: If you are having trouble finding a topic, consider a brainstorming activity. Use a tool like a MindMup that creates mind maps or grab a pen and paper and write down everything you already know about your topic. These activities can help you connect the dots and find a topic!
