Getting Started

There are three major tasks in getting started on a research paper:

Select Finding Information to go to the next step in the research process.

Selecting a Topic

  • Discuss the topic with your instructor. Be sure you understand the assignment, particularly any specific requirements or limitations.
  • Select a topic that interests you.

Refining Your Topic

  • Write a question about the information that you are researching.

    • Are there any articles or other information about a person who is dealing with family violence and cocaine?

  • Determine the key concepts from your question:
    • family violence
    • cocaine
    • domestic violence
    • drug abuse

Gathering Background Information