Which of the following is an appropriately narrowed topic for a 5-page research paper?
This page lists some of the stages involved in writing a library-based research paper. Show
Although this list suggests that there is a simple, linear process to writing such a paper, the actual process of writing a research paper is often a messy and recursive one, so please use this outline as a flexible guide. Discovering, Narrowing, and Focusing a Researchable Topic
Finding, Selecting, and Reading SourcesYou will need to look at the following types of sources:
Grouping, Sequencing, and Documenting InformationThe following systems will help keep you organized:
Writing an Outline and a Prospectus for YourselfConsider the following questions:
Writing the IntroductionIn the introduction you will need to do the following things:
Writing the Body
Writing the Conclusion
Revising the Final Draft
Topic vs. thesis Don't confuse a topic with a main idea or thesis. The topic provides the subject; the thesis makes an assertion about that subject. Here are a few examples of topics that might be assigned to a college student:
Topics 2 and 5 ask the writer to argue a position. A sentence expressing that position is a thesis statement. A thesis statement for the second topic might be: Imposing sanctions on China would be a mistake because it would hurt the American economy, because sanctions are notoriously unsuccessful as a way to force change, and because the United States should not interfere in the internal policies of other countries. While the other topics don't ask the writer to take a position, the writer should still formulate a thesis. A thesis statement for the first bullet might be: Although both poet X and poet Y show appreciation for their subjects, poet X's “To a Wolf” symbolizes the separation between humans and other animals, while poet Y's “The Happy Meercat” symbolizes the connection between all living things. With this thesis statement, the writer makes a point about the topic and sets up a direction for developing the content of the essay. Writing a thesis statement When you write a paper that will, for example, analyze a literary work, compare theories, identify causes or effects, or argue a position, you should be able to write a thesis statement. You can refine and improve it as you go along, but try to begin with a one‐sentence statement. A thesis statement can help you steer a straight course and avoid digression. Don't be satisfied with weak generalities that fail to zero in on your main point. The following are examples of pseudo‐thesis statements:
None of these statements provides a clear direction for an essay because the assertions they make are too vague. A better thesis statement for the third example might be: Clothing images in King Lear reflect the development of Lear from a man blinded by appearances to a man able to face the naked truth. Remember that creating a thesis statement is important to the way you approach your topic and will help you direct your thinking and writing. How do you narrow a research topic?Here are some common ways you can narrow down a research topic:. By demographic characteristics. Narrow it down by age group, occupation, ethnic group, gender, etc. ... . By relevant issues. Try to identify key issues related to your topic, especially ones that you have an opinion on. ... . By location. ... . By timeframe. ... . By causes.. What are the 5 guidelines in choosing a research topic?How to Select the Right Research Topic in 5 Easy Steps. Brainstorm Some Research Topics. The first and probably the easiest step is to have a brainstorming session to see what topic is best for you. ... . Select a Topic. ... . Get Super Specific. ... . Define Your Topic as a Question. ... . Research Your Topic More / Create an Outline.. What are the examples of research topic?Sample Research Topics. Brain Injury: Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Brain Injury.. Data Analytics: Translational Data Analytics and Decision Science.. Foods for Health: Personalized Food and Nutritional Metabolic Profiling to Improve Health.. Food Security: Resilient, Sustainable and Global Food Security for Health.. How can I choose a good topic for my research paper?Here are some tips:. Choose a topic that you are interested in! ... . Narrow your topic to something manageable. ... . Review the guidelines on topic selection outlined in your assignment. ... . Refer to lecture notes and required texts to refresh your knowledge of the course and assignment.. Talk about research ideas with a friend.. |