Senior Project Research: Finding a Topic

Start browsing for ideas -- news, magazines, websites, or library databases. If you see something that piques your interest or curiosity, follow that lead! Look for a topic that inspires and excites you, and that offers you room to develop expertise in a new area.

Try to avoid a topic that is too broad, already well-worn territory, or too polarizing. Ask yourself:

• Can I cover this topic thoroughly in a 20-min. presentation?
  • Is there a narrower aspect or instance of this topic I can cover?
• Is this topic already established?
  • Can I bring a new or different angle to make the topic fresh?
• Is there room for debate on this topic?
  • Can I convince my audience of my perspective or teach them something new?