When trying to select a topic to write about, be sure the topic you choose:

• Matches the assignment.
  • For example, if you write a process paper for English composition, be sure your topic is an actual process someone can do.  That's a different type of topic than what you would choose for an informative/expository paper in which you'd explain something or inform your reader.
• Fulfills all required elements of the assignment
  • Required length
  • Required number and types of sources
  • Specific sections, such as application evaluation or comparison
• Is something about which you are interested in learning.
  • It does not need to be a topic you're already well informed about.  The purpose of college is for you to learn new things, so let your writing assignments help you to do just that!
• Is something for which you can find credible sources of information.
  • Your sources should shape and support your theories, arguments, or conclusions.
  • Personal opinions need to be supported with facts and statistics. Otherwise, you're just an opinionated person rather than a well-informed writer.

You can make the process smoother by choosing a topic you’re familiar with, or that excites you to learn more about. Here are a few brainstorming tips that can help you to narrow your topic:

• Free write – Sit down and start writing. Forget about grammar and formatting. Just write about whatever comes to mind. How long you spend on this technique is up to you, but soon, you will notice all potential ideas.

• Listing – Make a list of many different topics that come to mind. Choose the one that interests you most.

• Clustering/Mapping/Webbing – Start with a keyword(s), then branch out with other ideas that compare/contrast, support, or disagree with the main idea(s). Take it as far as you can.

• Ask journalist questions –When you come up with an idea, ask yourself who, what, when, where, why, and how.