New College Writing Program Library Guide
Guide to selecting research topics, writing a research question, finding, evaluating, and citing scholarly articles
Finding topics
For many students finding a topic of interest to write about can be one of the more difficult parts of a research assignment.
Check out the Topic Identification and Selection Tutorial below to learn more about the library's resources and how to find and refine a workable topic.
Tools for exploring topics
Having trouble deciding what to write about? Try looking at the links below to get some ideas:
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Brookings InstitutionVery thorough and substantial research reports on all kinds of issues. The reports can also be used as sources in your papers.
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The ConversationA non-profit and independent source for scholarly news about critical issues of the day. ASU is a contributor and member of The Conversation and many ASU scholars and professors have contributed articles. Reliable and authoritative information.
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Pew Research CenterThe reports can also be used as sources in your papers. Very reputable and reliable. Look for the "Research Topics" link in the top toolbar.
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ProCon.orgProvides topic summaries and pro and con arguments. Lots of topics to explore.
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Science DailyInterested in the sciences? See what the new discoveries and developments are in the world of science.
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Opposing Viewpoints (Gale In Context)Diverse perspectives on current social issues, providing viewpoint articles, statistics, news, multimedia, and reference content to support critical thinking and debate