How to select a topic

Some assignments will come with a topic. Others will require you to select a topic. In such a case, you will have to select a great topic. With a good topic, it will be easier to write a good paper. For many people, selecting a topic is a daunting task. This is the reason they ask about how to select a topic. Below is a solution on how to select a topic for any type of paper.

How to choose a good topic for writing

Step 1: Brainstorm a list of topics

Start by reading and understanding your assignment. Know the type of paper that your teacher expects. Know the purpose of your paper. Check the expected degree of research and assignment length. Then, think about five possible topics. Write any topic that crosses your mind.

Step 2: Select three topics from your list

Out of the five topics, narrow down to three topics. There are various factors you need to consider when choosing these topics. We will provide a list of these factors later. Just select the topics you have a greater interest in.

Step 3: Research

Find and read general information about these three topics. You can use Google to find websites on the topics. Select a topic that seems easy for you. Also, select a topic with more available resources.

Step 4: Keep your topic manageable

Now that you have your topic, focus on it. Is it manageable? Is it too broad or too narrow? If it is too broad, narrow it down. For example, instead of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, think of the social effects. You can even narrow this down by geography. For example, social effects of COVID-19 pandemic in Houston, Texas. Make your topic manageable.

Factors to consider when choosing a good topic for writing

When figuring out how to select a topic, consider the following factors.

Interest

We all love doing something we have an interest in. So, if you have an interest in a topic, you will love writing about it. Before you decide on a topic, ensure that you have an interest in it. The more interest you have in a topic, the more you will enjoy writing your paper. You will find yourself being more committed and dedicated to doing your assignment. So, if you don’t want frustration with your paper, choose a topic you are interested in. This will also help avoid boredom along the way.

Time

Time is an important factor to consider when thinking about how to select a topic. Every assignment comes with a time limit. For example, your teacher may assign you a 10-page essay to be completed in 24 hours. This time limit affects how you will explore a topic. If you choose a too broad topic, it may be impossible to explore it within the time limit. In such a case, narrow down your topic.

Available resources

Let’s say your friend gives you a surprise visit. The first question to ask yourself is what meal you will prepare for them. The available ingredients will determine the type of meal you will prepare. It will be impossible to prepare a meal whose ingredients are inaccessible.

The same case applies to topic selection. You can only write a good paper if you have enough material. You can find this material in scholarly articles, journals, and books. So, before, you select a topic, ensure you have enough available sources.

The resources can be available in your library. You can also access them through online databases.

Long-term goals

Before you select a topic, think about your long-term goals. For example, where would you like to be in 5 years? Your answer should guide your choice of topic. For example, let us say you would like to be working in a corporate firm. Your choice of topic may focus on corporate laws. You shouldn’t waste time on unnecessary topics. Invest in a topic that will add some value to your life.

Subject

When selecting a topic, you must consider the subject. This is especially important for college essays. For example, an assignment in history class, demands a topic within that subject. You shouldn’t select an English topic for a history class. Select a topic relevant to your course.

The subject is also important when figuring out how to select a topic for review article. You must select a relevant topic.

Other factors to consider when selecting a topic

When thinking about how to select a topic, start by considering the above factors. Also, there are other factors to consider when choosing a research topic. These include;

Budget. Choose a research topic that you can afford. Remember you will have to travel when meeting with study participants. Other costs include proofreading and printing. Select a topic that will not be too expensive for you.

Novelty. Select an original topic. Don’t go for topics that other people have worked on.

Conclusion

Have you been wondering about how to select a topic? In this article, we have provided a step-by-step guide on how to choose a good topic for writing. We have also explained some factors to consider when choosing a research topic. Selecting a good topic will ensure that you write a winning paper. Get professional help for further assistance on how to select a topic.