Define Your Research

( Choose a topic; write a thesis statement)                                   

Define your research topic or problem:

• Be sure your topic and thesis statement meet the requirements of your assignment.
• Choose a topic that is interesting to you.

• Brainstorm                      
  • Think about the topic and write whatever comes into your mind on paper.
• Write lists of words or phrases about a topic.
• Create a web about the topic (use Inspiration).  
• Consider the purpose and the audience for your paper.

 

• Read a general article in an encyclopedia, magazine or book

• Don't use the Internet yet.
• Learn the vocabulary for your topic to help choose search terms later.
• Is there enough information? Broaden your topic.
• Is there too much information? Narrow your topic.

• Write a thesis statement that:
  • tells your reader what your argument is or what you intend to demonstrate or prove.
  • acts as a road map for your paper.
  • will be included in the first paragraph of your paper.
  • can/will be changed and revised as you work.