Overview - Selecting a Research Topic - Research Guides at MIT Libraries

Writing Help

Here are some resources to refer to when selecting a topic and preparing to write a paper:

MIT Writing and Communication Center
"Providing free professional advice about all types of writing and speaking to all members of the MIT community."
Barton, the MIT Libraries catalog
Find books about writing. Search by subject for: english language grammar; report writing handbooks; technical writing handbooks
A+ Research and Writing
From the Internet Public Library; a guide to researching and writing a paper, including topic selection and searching for information.
Blue Book of Grammar and Punctuation
Online version of the book that provides examples and tips on grammar, punctuation, capitalization, and other writing rules.

Choosing an interesting research topic is your first challenge. Here are some tips:

Choose a topic that you are interested in! The research process is more relevant if you care about your topic.
Narrow your topic to something manageable.
- If your topic is too broad, you will find too much information and not be able to focus.
- Background reading can help you choose and limit the scope of your topic.
Review the guidelines on topic selection outlined in your assignment. Ask your professor or TA for suggestions.
Refer to lecture notes and required texts to refresh your knowledge of the course and assignment.
Talk about research ideas with a friend. S/he may be able to help focus your topic by discussing issues that didn't occur to you at first.
Think of the who, what, when, where and why questions:
- WHY did you choose the topic? What interests you about it? Do you have an opinion about the issues involved?
- WHO are the information providers on this topic? Who might publish information about it? Who is affected by the topic? Do you know of organizations or institutions affiliated with the topic?
- WHAT are the major questions for this topic? Is there a debate about the topic? Are there a range of issues and viewpoints to consider?
- WHERE is your topic important: at the local, national or international level? Are there specific places affected by the topic?
- WHEN is/was your topic important? Is it a current event or an historical issue? Do you want to compare your topic by time periods?

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