Before you can choose a topic, consider why you are looking for information.

Have you been assigned a research project? It is important to understand your assignment.

Do you have a personal question or problem you need to research? You may need help defining your research question.

If you have a research assignment, make sure you understand the assignment before you begin:

• Are you limited to certain types of sources? How many sources?

• How long should your paper be? Does this include a separate title page or bibliography page?

• What topics can be chosen?

• Is this an informative or persuasive paper?

• Which style or format should be used for the bibliography page?

• When is the assignment due? Is anything besides the final paper required? (This may include an outline, rough draft, or photocopies of sources.)