Library Research Guide - Step 1

More about Identifying and
Developing Your Topic

Before beginning your research, your should write a clear statement of your topic. Doing this will help you focus your thinking throughout the entire research process and will help you identify relevant keywords to use as you search for information.

Often, stating a topic isn't easy. Your first written statement or question may require some revision or clarification, and it is normal for researchers to revise their topic statements as needed throughout the research process (although once you begin writing your research paper, it must consistently reflect your final topic statement or question).

If you need help developing a research question or statement, you should consult with your course instructor, a reference librarian, or others who are knowledgeable about your subject or research processes in general.

Sample research question:
What did Thomas Jefferson say or write about slavery, and how
do his public statements about this issue compare with actions
he took in his personal life?

Keywords:
Thomas Jefferson, slavery, personal life

Synonyms/Related Words and Phrases:
Political and social views, slaves, equality, relations with slaves.

Once you have a working research question or statement, you can use the resulting keywords, synonyms and related words to find relevant books, articles, Web sites, and other information. This is because computerized indexes, catalogs and search engines operate on keywords.

Return to the Library Research Guide