A research topic needs to be narrow enough--focused enough--so that you can accomplish many things your 1500-word essay. You'll need to explain your research question, give your reader background information or context, explain your subject cleary and your specific sub-questions and evidence in detail. You will need to argue a position supported by that evidence and you'll need to understand, acknowledge, and address an opposing viewpoint. Finally, you'll need to reach and write a conclusion. To do all that in just a few pages, your topic must be very specific. The tools on this page can help. Experiment and find the approach that is right for you. Contact library staff for assistance!
4-minute how-to video by the Ohio State University Libraries explains 5 simple questions that will help you to narrow down your topic quickly: Who? What? When? Where? Why?
Optional worksheets will help you narrow down your topic using the 5Ws described in the video on this page.
Narrow My Topic - Google Doc Worksheet