How do I choose a Research Topic?
Answer
Spend some time thinking about your research topic. You may start with a general topic. It is helpful to turn the topic into a question, such as: How has the Internet affected marketing strategies of corporations?
In most cases, you will find that the initial question is usually too broad. In order to answer the question, you will need to ask other questions. To do this, break down the question to more specific ones. The specific questions will help you focus on the aspects of the topic you are interested in.
A question that is too broad: What is the impact of the Internet on corporations?
A question that is appropriate: How has the Internet affected marketing strategies of corporations?
More specific questions:
- Did the changes occur only in certain industries, but not all?
- What type of marketing strategy is impacted the most?
- What are the statistics of Internet marketing?
- Who are the major Internet advertisers?
If you are not familiar with the research topic and are having difficulties narrowing it down, consult an encyclopedia or talk with your professor or a person who can give you an overview of the topic.
Brainstorming will help make your research interests clearer to you. A good research topic is one that is not too broad nor too narrow.