ENGL 1301 SO

What should I look for in my assignment?

• Keywords or verbs. Words like summarize, compare, analyze, or argue direct you to think about your topic in a certain way.
• Technical details which indicate format rules or guidelines like font, length, spacing, and citation style.
• Project logistics will tell you about the final product, whether it is supposed to be a speech, written paper, or other presentation.
• Number and type of sources such as peer-reviewed, scholarly, primary or secondary.
• Due dates for drafts and final paper/presentation. Plan ahead for time in the library and writing center.

Where do I find topic ideas?

• Discuss your topic ideas with your class instructor or a reference librarian. It may be wise to set up an appointment so you can get extra help. 
• Here you will find a list of topic ideas from another community college library.
• Explore current topics using one of the resources listed below. 
• CQ Researcher This link opens in a new window

• was founded in 1923 as Editorial Research Reports and provides comprehensive reporting and analysis on issues in the news. Each week, CQ reporters add an in-depth, non-biased article on political and social issues, with regular reports on topics in health, international affairs, education, the environment, technology and the U.S. economy.

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• How can I choose a good topic for my research paper?

  Advice from Emory Libraries regarding considerations for topic selection.

• From Topic to Research Question

  A helpful guide from Indiana University Libraries.