Q. How do I find a topic for my research paper?

Selecting a topic is possibly the most difficult part of doing research. The key to a successful research paper is to select a topic that is interesting, appropriate, and has enough information to fulfill the assignment guidelines. If you have no idea what you want to write about check out these sources as good starting points.

Issues Subject Guide

The librarians have selected a variety of resources including books,databases, media, and authoratative websites that would be helpful in doing your research. Additionally the guide includes information on creating a works cited page and how to reach the librarians for help.

The CQ Researcher, one of our online databases contains in-depth articles on controversial topics of the day. Check out this topic page to get some ideas. All perspectives are covered and this is an excellent source when writing an argumentative essay.

Opposing viewpoints is both a series of books and a database that is available online. Click on one of the topics of interest and you will be presented with a series of argumentative essays (Viewpoints) links to magazine, newspaper, statistics, images, primary documents and websites on the topic.