Topic selection is more important to the research process than you might initially think. All topics are not suitable for all papers.

 

If you are assigned a general topic, you may have to select a specific aspect of that topic on which to focus.

 

If your teacher does not assign you a specific topic, there are a number of factors you need to consider in the selection of your topic.

 

1. What is it that the assignment asks you to do?--Will you have to analyze a piece of literature? Speculate on the causes of an event in history? Argue a position on a controversial issue?

 

2. How long does the paper have to be?--The shorter the paper, the more specific the topic needs to be.

 

3. Into how much depth are you expected to go on your subject?--Are you expected to delve deeply into one topic, or touch on a variety of different aspects of a more general subject?

 

4. How long do you have to write the paper?--Your topic should be manageable within the assigned time frame. That means you should be able to gather the required sources, do the required research, and write the paper in the time allotted. If your topic is too big or too obscure, you might not be able to complete the task by the due date.

 

5. Will the subject engage your interest?--It will be a much more enjoyable process for you if you have some interest in your subject. It will probably result in a better paper too.

 

Research paper topics should have some room for argument or interpretation. Topics that are strictly factual with no room for debate are generally not suitable for research papers.

 

Weak Topic: Thomas Jefferson

 

This subject is way too broad. It is unclear what direction the writer is expected to take. It also does not seem to invite the ideas, opinions and insights of the writer.

 

Better Topic: The role of Thomas Jefferson in the negotiation of the Louisiana Purchase

 

This is a narrowly focused topic. It makes it clear what the specific task of the writer will be. It calls upon the writer not only to report on, but to evaluate Jefferson’s actions and influence on the events of the Louisiana Purchase

 

Weak Topic: The poetry of Emily Dickinson

 

Again, this topic is too broad. Emily Dickinson wrote hundreds of poems. That is certainly too much to discuss in any high school (or even college) paper.

 

Better Topic: Emily Dickinson’s use of imagery in her poems about death

 

This narrows the topic down considerably. It invites the writer to provide his or her own interpretation of Dickinson’s poetry.

 

Weak Topic: Depression

 

Better Topic: Depression as a factor in the development of eating disorders.