| Sometimes the most difficult part of writing a research paper is selecting a topic. Often your professor will assign a topic to research. However, there are times a professor will ask that you select a research topic of your own. Here are some tips to help you get started. |
A research topic should be:
- Manageable: Do some background work to see if there's too much information (the topic is too broad) or too little information (the topic is too narrow) on the topic you've selected.
- Related to your personal interests: Select a topic that interests you. Ideally it should hold your interest throughout the research and writing process.
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Investigate these sources for ideas and background information:
- CQ Researcher
- Research Guides - available online
- Prepared by Fordham librarians, these guides are an excellent starting point for reseach in various disciplines.
- Guides combine a list of the major reference books, online databases and recommended websites.
- General Encyclopedias
- These encyclopedias cover all branches of knowledge.
- Encyclopaedia Britannica in Reference Stacks (RH, LC, W) Ref AE5.B7, available online.
- Subject Encyclopedias
- There are specialized encyclopedias on almost every subject.
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