Answered By: Paul Lai
Last Updated: Jul 17, 2023     Views: 3766

While you want to choose a topic that interests you, the most important things to consider are your assignment guidelines.

Guidelines Checklist

  • Double-check the syllabus or assignment document.
  • Double-check the assignment's word limit.
    • Assume that each main point will likely require at least one page of explanation.
  • Write out all the topics or sources that you must cover in your paper.
  • Think about the scope of your paper
    • Short papers require narrow topics. Rather than using a broad topic like "diabetes" in a five-page paper, narrow your focus to something more manageable (i.e., diabetes in middle-aged Caucasian men with sedentary lifestyles). 
  • Take thorough notes.
  • Determine your topic and create a thesis statement for your paper.

  

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