Shaping Your Research Paper Ideas

 Every time you narrow a subject into a topic, remember your boundaries and parameters: time, length, audience, and purpose. Keep all other special considerations in mind as well. Always consider what you can handle within the restrictions you have been given-as well as what you would most enjoy writing about for several weeks or months. Follow these guidelines:
1.    Start with a general subject that interests you and fits the parameters of the assignment.
2.    Phrase the subject as a question.
3.    Brainstorm subdivisions of the subject to create topics.
4.    Consult different sources for possible subtopics. Possibilities include the Internet, card catalog, reference books, magazines, friends, and the media.
5.    Sift the ideas until you find one that suits the assignment, audience, and your preferences.

6. Write your final topic as a question.
Below is the process that Samantha followed to narrow a subject into a topic. Samantha wanted to write a research paper on some aspect of television, a very broad subject.
By looking through the Internet, skimming the card catalog, talking to friends, watching television, and reading some general interest newsmagazines that had articles on the subject, Samantha came up with these ideas:
Subject    Television
Question    What do I want to find out about television?