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From
Topic to Research Question
A good research
topic asks a clear, concise question instead of simply stating a
broad issue. Asking a research question helps you keep a tight focus
on your topic as you wade through the available research. You'll
be able to more easily identify the material that answers your question
and reject material that discusses your topic too generally. Help!
I can't think of a topic!
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Broad
Topic:
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Legalization
of Marijuana
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Research
Question:
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How
would the legalization of marijuana affect the US court system?
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Research
Question:
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Would
the legalization of marijuana increase or decrease drug use
among US teenagers? |
Tweaking
Your Research Question
A good research
topic is broad enough to allow you to find plenty of material, but
narrow enough to fit within the size and time constraints of your
paper. As you begin to research your topic, if you discover that
your topic is either too broad or too narrow, consider adding or
eliminating the following elements to solve the problem:
| Time
Period:
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century,
decade, future, etc. |
| Population
Type: |
age,
gender, nationality, species, etc. |
| Geographic
Location: |
country,
state, region, etc. |
| Point
of View: |
economic,
social, cultural, biological, |
Check with your
instructor if you have any doubt that your topic is a good one.
You'll both be glad you did!
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