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Exploring a topic

Exploring a topic

Finding a topic can feel overwhelming, and trying to find an answer to a question that hasn’t been answered poses more difficulty than expected. Don’t let fear or doubt stir you away! Find comfort in the fact that several people have been in the same position and have thought the same things you have, yet have successfully participated in research.  

Exploring a topic more in-depth can start in several different ways, depending on what you decide is the best fit for you. However, taking advantage of your resources at UMSL is a good place to start.  

Taking notes on websites you have discovered, possible areas of research that interest you, and ideas that come to mind can be helpful to look back on or spark any more ideas. 

If you know a topic you are interested in: 

  • If you came across your topic in a course reading, looking at the bibliography section can help you find additional sources. Searching for the author online to read and explore other articles or books they’ve written on the subject can be helpful.  
  • If a topic interests you during a lecture, consider asking the instructor for more details after class or during their office hours.  
  • Talking to a librarian about your topic of interest can be helpful. They can provide specific recommendations on readings or online resources, such as journals or blogs.  
  • If you have a subject in mind, visiting Wikipedia can be insightful. It can also be a good starting point for a basic understanding of your topic. However, be cautious when using Wikipedia—it is not a reliable source for academic research.  

If you are unsure of a topic:  

  • Check your department’s website, find your major, and visit the faculty/research section to explore the faculty's areas of expertise and current research. If any spark your interest, write them down and follow the steps above to delve deeper into a topic.  
  • Enrolling in specific courses that sound interesting can help you explore different topics and open doors to research.  
  • Attending campus events can help you get involved, make connections, and broaden your scope of research.