It can be exciting to choose your own topic for a research paper. However, make sure your topic is neither too broad nor too vague. Topics that are too broad can be challenging to write about because there is too much information to cover in one paper. A topic that is properly focused for the assignment (consider the prompt, required length, and subject) will allow you to develop an effective research question. Your research question will guide your investigation as you research and gather information that will eventually become the content of your focused paper.

Watch the video and review the infographic below to learn more about effectively narrowing your topic to create a research question.