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Research Process for Assignments

This guide will walk you through the research process, from selecting a topic to doing your search and putting it all together.

Your Topic

  • Your professor might provide a list of topics to choose from... but you might also encounter the freedom of "anything that interests you"! How do you find a topic when anything (that relates to the class, at least) is on the table?
  • Begin thinking about the type of research you would like to do by asking yourself the questions below.  Even seemingly silly ideas can lead you to relevant new topic areas and research questions.
    • What are your personal interests within the subject?
    • What direct experiences have you had that were particularly significant or meaningful to you, as related to your subject?
    • Are there some ideas you have studied about which you are curious and would like to explore further?
    • With your career goals upon completion of your degree in mind, how will they be affected by your subject?
    • Have you read any interesting articles or books (or heard any neat podcasts) that you can relate to the class?