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Developing Your Research Question or Topic

This guide provides students with a systematic 7-step process for developing strong research topics, moving from broad interests to focused, answerable questions. It emphasizes topic development as the foundation for successful research

Research starts with curiosity. Your first step is identifying what genuinely interests you within your field. Don't worry about being specific yet—the goal is to find areas that capture your attention.

How to Find Your Interests

Review Your Coursework: Which lectures engaged you most? What readings sparked questions that stayed with you after class? Which assignments felt like discovery rather than obligation?

Mine Articles You've Read: Look back at articles from your classes or independent reading. What questions did they raise that weren't fully answered? What aspects made you want to learn more? Pay attention to:

  • Conclusions that mention "future research is needed"
  • Limitations sections that point to unexplored areas
  • Debates between different researchers or theories
  • Applications mentioned but not fully developed
  • Methods that could be applied to new contexts

Use Research Databases to Explore: Academic databases aren't just for finding sources—they're great for discovering what researchers in your field are currently investigating. Try these approaches:

  • Browse recent issues of journals in your field to see trending topics
  • Use subject headings or keywords from interesting articles to find related research
  • Look at "related articles" or "cited by" features to see how research builds on itself
  • Search broad terms in your field and see what subtopics emerge
  • Check database topic pages or subject guides for current research areas

Examine Current Events: What's happening in the world that connects to your field? Current issues often point toward important research questions.

Consider Personal Experience: Your own observations or experiences can lead to compelling research areas. What patterns have you noticed? What problems have you encountered?

Think About Career Goals: What areas relate to your professional aspirations? Research can serve both academic and career purposes.

Examples

Psychology: "Technology seems to be changing how people interact and feel about themselves"

Business: "I'm curious about what makes people buy things online versus in stores

Computer Science: "AI is everywhere now, but what are the ethical implications?"

Health Sciences: "There has to be better ways to prevent diseases before they start"

Architecture: "Cities feel increasingly unsustainable—how can design help?"

Engineering: "Renewable energy sounds great in theory, but what are the real challenges?"

Biology: "Gene editing could change everything, but how do we navigate the implications?"

These broad interests are perfect starting points. You're not trying to solve world problems yet—just identifying what energizes your thinking.