How To Do Secondary Research or a Literature Review

Selecting a strong research topic is a crucial step in any research process—whether for a class assignment, capstone project, or thesis planning. The best topics spark your curiosity, fulfill assignment requirements, and align with the resources you have available. Remember, compelling research topics are not simply “found” but are developed through systematic thinking, honest self-assessment, and iterative refinement. Trust the process, stay curious, and allow your interests to evolve as you learn more. If you need support at any stage, a research librarian is just a click away—just use the link below the navigation boxes on the left margin of this page.

1. If you're not familiar with your topic. If you're researching a topic that you know little or nothing about, start by learning more about it. Use Wikipedia articles, basic textbooks, websites or other sources to learn the broad outlines of the topic before delving in more deeply.
2. Identify Broad Interests. Start by considering areas in your field that genuinely fascinate you. What kinds of problems, trends, or questions spark your curiosity? Let your interests guide you—research is more rewarding when you care about your topic.
3. Narrow Your Focus. Move from a broad area to something more specific. Use brainstorming techniques like mind mapping, free writing, or setting constraints. Look for a unique angle, emerging issue, or understudied niche that intrigues you.
4. Research Existing Knowledge. Do a preliminary literature search to see what's already known. Use library databases, scholarly resources, and credible websites to get a sense of current scholarship, debates, and gaps. This helps ensure your topic offers opportunities for new inquiry.
5. Write Research Questions. Turn your emerging topic into 1-3 specific, answerable questions. Good research questions are:
   • Focused on a manageable aspect of the topic
   • Clearly worded
   • Significant within your field or discipline
   • Original or offer a distinct perspective
6. Check Feasibility. Before committing, reflect on the practical aspects:
   • Are the data, sources, and materials needed available and accessible?
   • Do you have the necessary skills, background knowledge, and time?
   • Are there any ethical concerns?
   • Adjust your topic, if needed, to ensure it’s achievable.
7. Get Feedback. Share your proposed topic and research questions with professors, advisors, or peers. Others may provide fresh insights, spot challenges, or point you to helpful resources. Be open to suggestions and willing to revise.
8. Refine and Finalize. Incorporate feedback and refine your questions for clarity, significance, and feasibility. Narrow your scope if the topic feels too ambitious, or expand if it’s too limiting. Take time to polish—well-developed questions lay a strong foundation for research success.

• Tto learn more about any of the topics listed above, just click the links (in red text). Each one will take you to a more detailed guide.
• Need help with your research or writing? Use the links at the bottom of the left-hand column (under the navigation tabs) to connect with library support, including:
  • Chatting live with a research librarian
  • Scheduling a one-on-one appointment with your subject specialist
  • Browsing the library’s FAQ for quick answers
• You may also be able to get research or writing support from other campus offices, such as the Writing Center or the Office of the Thesis Examiner. Check with them to see what services they offer and how to make an appointment.