STEP 2 Select Your Topic Instructors may sometimes assign you a specific topic (or choice of topics) for your research paper, but oftentimes they expect you to choose your own topic. For some students, selecting a topic is the most difficult part of doing research. What is a “good” topic? Generally, it must be: • Appropriate: It must fit or meet the criteria for the assignment. Examples: Assignment: Discuss effects of violence on society Appropriate Topic: Television cartoons and preschool children Not Appropriate: Characteristics of popular TV cartoons • Interesting: Select a topic that you are interested in and that you will enjoy researching. • Manageable: A manageable topic has enough information available. This may mean refining your topic so that it is neither too broad nor too narrow. Examples: Too much information available on the topic: Abortion Too little information available on the topic: Abortion in the city of La Puente in 1995-1998 among high school girls. Ask Yourself: After reading the above definition, do I think I have a good topic? Then Do This: If yes, double check with the reference librarian. If no, ASK A REFERENCE LIBRARIAN for help. Some sources for ideas: • Your textbook or assigned readings • A general encyclopedia • “Research Topics,” “Subject Guides,” or “Controversial Topics” in the Rio Hondo College Library Web site: http://library.riohondo.edu Books: • REF LB1047.3.L35 1991 10,000 Ideas for Term Papers, Projects and Reports • REF LB2369.M463 1987 Sourcebook for English Papers : 1001 Ideas for Term Papers, Projects, Reports, and Speeches • HM45.A7 1000 Ideas for Term Papers in Sociology • H62.F35 1000 Ideas for Term Papers in Social Science Ask Yourself: Is my topic too broad or too narrow? Then Do This: Narrow your topic by phrasing it as a sentence or a question. Examples: Too Broad: Bilingual education Better Topic: Bilingual education in the elementary schools hampers students’ learning. Too Broad: Gambling Better Topic: Does online gambling lead to an increase in crime?   • Very little information may be available on topics that are too narrow. • Take a step back and expand the picture. Examples: Too Narrow: Women’s health concerns in New Delhi Better Topic: Women’s health–a world perspective Remember to consult with the Reference Librarian on whether there is enough information on your topic! Step 3 Identify Keywords and Concepts of Your Topic

Introduction Understand the   Assignment   Select Your   Topic    Identify   Keywords and   Concepts of   Your Topic   Focus Your Research:   When To Use   Which   Resources   Find Books on   Your Topic    When You   Need   Articles   Search for Web  Sites About  Your  Topic   Evaluate Your   Sources    Cite Your    Sources      Important   Reminders   Research Paper   Checklist