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Focusing on a Topic

Problem:
Too much information.

Possible Solution:
Try restating your topic as a question. As you do that, think about the most interesting part of your topic. For example, if your topic is teen smoking, you may phrase your question, What social pressures cause teens to start smoking?


Problem:
Information is too general.

Possible Solution:
Try one or more of the topic “invention” techniques suggested by the Purdue University Online Writing Lab (OWL) site under Invention Techniques. Techniques are geared toward different learning styles and include freewriting, brainstorming, clustering/webbing/concept mapping, cubing and heuristics. The site explains these techniques and contains links to examples.  Look at the entire OWL Writing a Research Paper workshop for help with other stages of writing your paper.

Try typing in keywords (the main words about your topic), then using the topic suggestions in the databases to focus on your topic.  Use the search tips for databases and the library catalog to help construct your search. Try an advanced search.

If you find an article you like, use the “More like this” feature to find similar articles on the same subject. If you find a book you like, look for books in the same subject area, either in the catalog or by browsing the shelves.


Problem:
Not enough information.

Possible Solution:
Try using synonyms for words related to your topic. 

Use the search tips for databases and the library catalog to help construct your search. For example, in ProQuest, you can search for teen* to find additional forms of teen, including teenager, and synonyms for teen, including youth and adolescent. Try an advanced search.

Search all campuses in the library catalog. You may borrow books from other campuses through Intercampus Loan.  You may also borrow books from the GMU library and other local libraries.


Problem:
No information.

Possible Solution:
Try the tips under “Not enough information.”

Check your spelling.

Try one of the subject-specific databases.

Try searching a professional or academic journal in the field dealing with your topic.

Look carefully at your topic question. If you have asked, “What are the mating habits of black-footed ferrets in Montana during the full moon?” then you should pull back and think of a less specific research question.