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ENG103: Research Topics

Choosing a Topic

Background Information on a Topic

It can be helpful to do some background research, sometimes called "pre-research", on a topic! This can help you develop effective research questions and brainstorm keywords/search terms.

  • Your instructor understands your assignment and can provide advice about the topic and how to frame it. 
  • Ask a Librarian! We can help brainstorm topics.
  • Sometimes googling a topic or looking on wikipedia can help you develop your topic and provide additional keywords. Note: this is for background research and is not considered scholarly!
  • Your textbook or class readings may also provide additional background information and keywords.
  • Try searching your topic in databases!