Skip to Main Content

Library Help: ENGL 3764 Technical Writing: Develop a Topic

Developing a Topic Tutorial

Developing a topic can be challenging. Check out the video below for more information and tips on developing a topic.

Picking a Topic

Developing your research topic is a continuous process. Watch this video from NCSU Libraries to help you get started. Then, use the news sources below to start exploring potential topics. 

Background Information

Picking Your Topic IS Research

What does this mean? As you consider possible topics for your research process, you will need to learn more about them and build your background knowledge. News and information sources created for popular audiences are great starting points.

As you explore the news sources below which focus on higher education generally, ask yourself & your group member: 

  • Why did you choose this topic?
    • Does it interest you?
    • Does it fit your assignment parameters?
  • What do you know about this topic? 
    • Brainstorm lists of your knowledge 
    • Consider making a concept map. (See Utah State University Libraries Concept Map Directions. )
  • What do you need to learn about this topic?
    • What's missing from your concept map?
  • Step back and ask yourself: "Is this topic a good fit for the assignment?"

 

Teaching and Learning Engagement Librarian

Profile Photo
Katlyn Griffin
she / her / hers
Contact:
317 Newman Library
540-231-9243

Schedule an Appointment

To sign up for an appointment during my regularly-scheduled office hours, please follow the link to my calendar. If none of those times work, please email me to find another time. 

News