Determine What Information Is Needed
Always refer to the instructor’s assignment sheet to ensure that you are approaching your subject correctly and meeting all expectations.
When selecting a topic for your paper, first determine what information you need. A broad topic can generate an overwhelming number of search results, making it difficult to find relevant sources.
For example, if you plan to write about homelessness, simply searching for "homelessness" will return millions of results. To narrow your focus, conduct some preliminary research and explore more specific aspects of the issue. Instead of a general search, try looking into topics such as "homeless veterans," "homeless children," or "causes of homelessness" to refine your approach.
Take time to familiarize yourself with the subject. Consider what you already know and whether you can find articles that support or expand on that knowledge. Understanding your prior knowledge can help you conduct more efficient research and focus on gathering new information.
As you organize your research, consider the key questions that will help structure your paper:
- Who is affected by this issue?
- What are its primary causes?
- Where is it most prevalent?
- When does it have the greatest impact?
- Why is it not being adequately addressed, or why does it continue despite efforts to resolve it?
- How can raising awareness help improve or change the situation?
Answering these questions will ensure that your research is thorough and well-structured.
Using multiple sources will help provide a well-rounded perspective. Different sources can offer valuable insights, allowing you to analyze the issue from various angles and develop a more comprehensive understanding of your topic.
CALVIN T. RYAN LIBRARY