Before you develop your research questions, start by doing some initial exploration. This can help you identify areas of interest that you can use to refine your topic prior to searching. 

1. What is your Prompt or an Area of Interest?   

Note:  Make sure your chosen topic fits in with your assignment!!

• Example: Universal Healthcare

2. Write down what you think or want to know about the topic

• Example: I think the United States should have universal healthcare coverage.
• Example: What factors prevent the U.S. from establishing universal healthcare?

3. Consider the Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How                                     

• Example: Who should have universal healthcare? 
• Example: Why should the U.S. have universal healthcare?
• Example: How does universal healthcare affect public health?

Once you have a topic in mind, it is a good idea to make a plan for completing your assignment.  Writing a successful research paper requires organization and time management. Give yourself a lot of time and stick to a schedule. Research is a process, so allow yourself enough time for:

1. Brainstorming

2. Researching and taking notes

3. Making an outline

4. Writing

5. Revising and polishing