Research topic
Research topic
In the beginning of a search it’s necessary to choose the topic you want to search. Sometimes you choose “big topics” because you think they are easier …
But some topics are VERY big…
EXAMPLES
Global warming or eating disorders or violence…
Problems with BIG topics:
• You can’t properly cover it in a small paper
• You will find too much information
• You can’t search or write about a topic that you don’t clearly delimit
Solution:
Ask What? Who? Where? When? How?
To limit your topic you should focus on:
• a single subject
• a specific group
• a specific period of time
• A single cause and effect
• A single argument or point of view
There are of course issues that are very specific, making it difficult to perform a search.:
If the issue is very limited you’ ll have difficulty finding the information
Example
Blind fish feeding in the Mira d’Aire caves or the chromatic influence during pregnancy
Solution:
If your topic is too specific try to extend it a bit, making it more general.
However, be careful so as not to make it too general and comprehensive.
The definition of a search issue involves the choice of keywords, sometimes the most difficult part of the research process.
See item keywords