Choosing a topic can be one of the most challenging parts of getting started.
A concept map is a visual representation of what you know about a topic. Concept maps help you organize your thoughts and explore the relationships in a topic. Use a concept map to organize and represent what you know about a topic. Explore the connections between elements of the topic.
Concept maps can be used to develop a research topic. They are a useful brainstorming tool.
Concept maps can be used to study. Mapping what you know about a subject and examining the relationships between elements help you develop a greater understanding of the material.
Most of the time you start with the central idea, topic, or subject. Then you branch out from that central point and show how the main idea can be broken into specific subtopics. Each subtopic can also be broken into even more specific topics.
Organize what you know by subtopic in a map.
Use the concept map to define your research topic.
For example: geography — local travel — rail — variants — rail systems — designs & availability — emissions — research & evidence
Refine your map into a topic statement (I am researching the environmental impact of commuter rail systems in cities) or a research question (How does using commuter rail systems in cities affect the environment?)
Reference sources can be useful for learning more about your topic and developing research questions—you might even get some ideas by browsing the contents or index of a specialized reference book. Check out the Finding Reference/Tertiary Sources page or the Research Starters, but here are some general e-reference sources to explore:
They are many types of questions you can ask about your topic.
Adapted from The Craft of Research, by W.C. Booth, G.G. Colomb, and J. M. Williams
The following steps can help you transition from a topic to a research question:
1. Define the topic area. In a sentence or two, describe your broad topic or area of research.
2. Describe the problem. In a sentence or two, describe a problem that could be addressed in your topic or area of research.
3. Specify the gap and justify the investigation. What is unknown or unresolved? Why should we bother investigating it?
4. Create the research question.
Adapted from the University of Guelph Libraries
UNCLEAR: What are the harmful effects of cell phones?
Clear: What impact does mining for metals used in cell phones have on the environment?
UNFOCUSED: What is the effect of pollution on waterways?
Focused: How does phosphorus from agricultural industrial pollution impact rural watersheds?
TOO SIMPLE: What is the political party system of the United States?
Appropriately complex: What role does the two-party system play in gerrymandering?