Tip: Choose a topic that interests you and holds your attention. If you do, the research will be more enjoyable.

The Research Assignment – Define the Task

• Before selecting a topic or starting your research, make sure you understand your assignment and its requirements. Consider the following:
  • Have you been assigned a topic or can you pick your own?
  • How many pages/words do you need to write? How long is your presentation?
  • Do you need to include specific types of sources? (e.g. scholarly journal, book, etc.)
  • When is the assignment due? How much time do you have to research?
  • Is currency of information important?
• When in doubt, consult with your instructor.

Topic Ideas 

•  Having trouble thinking of a topic to research? 
  • Scan your textbook for broad topic ideas.
  • Browse electronic encyclopedias like Encyclopedia Britannica.
  • Look at databases which feature articles on current events and controversial issues:
    • CQ Researcher
    • Opposing Viewpoints
    • Points of View Reference Center
• Discuss potential topics with your instructor, a librarian, or a classmate.

Additional resources:

Thesis Statement

A thesis statement describes your topic and your position on that topic.  A thesis statement should express an opinion, not a fact. The thesis statement tells the reader what you will be arguing for or against in your paper. The thesis statement should generally be placed towards the end of your introductory paragraph.

Basic components for a thesis-based writing assignment

• Introduction
  • main point
  • why?
• why this argument matters?
  • inviting?
  • Outlook?
• avoid purely descriptive writing
• make connections and establishes relevant relationships
• are credible resources used?
• logical?
• Conclusion: are both the problem and solution well proposed?

Organizational Statement

An organizational statement may be used along with a thesis statement to lay out the structure of your paper. Organizational statements are not always required, but can make your thesis statement and your writing stronger. In an organizational statement you lay out what major pieces of evidence you will use to back up your thesis statement. For best effect, the thesis statement and organizational statement can be written as wone sentence. If you choose to use an organizational statement, be sure to write following the structure that you have outlined in that statement.

Online Resources 

These websites provide detailed information about writing thesis and organizational statements.