Sometimes students waste too much time on the choosing part and forget to leave enough room for the actual research and writing. As well, some students choose a topic that they don't really have their heart in, and end up with little to say. So, when offered a choice, what do you do?
Note the Styles of the Topics
For example, are you being asked to describe, or illustrate with details? Compare or contrast more than one subject or item? Support an opinion? Choose the style you are better at writing. For instance, an opinion paper would suit a person who is good at selecting and organizing persuasive details and examples.
Look at the Subjects Carefully
Which one will hold your interest through several hours of reading, writing and revising? It's easy to get sick of a topic that you have only a passing interest in. I'm always amazed when I hear a student say, "My essay wasn't good because I didn't really like the topic I chose."
Determine Which Topic will be the Easiest for YOU to Research
Don't pick one because it "looks easy" or because your friend thinks it sounds easy. Ask yourself if you have access to the resources needed to complete the assignment. If it needs interview subjects, do you have the time and energy to find suitable people and ask them questions? Do you have time to visit a special library or other location to gather information? Will enough sources be available in a language you read or speak?
Find out What Topics your Instructor Enjoys Reading About
Some topics are overdone, and profs can get instantly bored just by looking at the title page. Try to take a new slant on an old topic, if you really "must" write about it. 5
Ask if it's Okay to Change the Topic Slightly
If you feel more qualified to write about that one, many instructors will be pleased that you have taken the initiative, and may look forward to reading something "different". Make sure your suggestion is relevant to the course, however, and isn't just a "rehashed" topic from another course you've taken. If no choice is given. . . . . .then you're on your own, more or less.
Use these tips to get you started:
- Your topic will probably be limited by the nature/scope of the course. Don't try to squeeze in an irrelevant topic just because you like it or because you think it will be easy to do. Ask your instructor before you start to ensure the topic is suitable
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