Background Information - ENGL 101 - English Composition I - Rice - LibGuides at Harrisburg Area Community College

Select a Topic

Don't know where to begin when trying to think of a research topic?

Pick a topic that you're interested in. It will make doing research more enjoyable and you will want to learn more!
Typically, we tend to think broadly about a topic. It's fine to start out that way, but you will need to narrow it down. Sometimes though, we start out too narrow. Doing research will help with determining if it's too broad or too narrow. Background research can help with this, which is where we will begin!
Make sure you understand the guidelines for your assignment so you know how many and what resources you need.
Let's take a look at some of the background resources listed below to help you decide on a topic.

Background Databases

CQ Researcher

Analytical reports on controversial issues from 1991 to the present. Includes background, chronology, tables and maps, and pro/con statements.

Opposing Viewpoints

Topic overviews, contrasting viewpoints, articles, primary source documents, statistics, videos, and recommended websites.

Reference Resources

Credo Reference

Articles from encyclopedias, dictionaries, and other reference sources from all subject areas. Includes images, audio pronunciation files, maps, and data tables.