Library: First Year Writing: Find a Topic

Find a Topic

Stuck for inspiration? Use some of these sources to explore current issues to find a topic.

Opposing Viewpoints (Gale in Context) This link opens in a new window
Opposing Viewpoints in Context has informed, differing views that present each side of an issue. Viewpoint pages bring balance and perspective to every controversy using targeted arguments from subject-matter experts and top journalistic sources.
Popular search terms: social media, anxiety

JSTOR Daily
Where news meets its scholarly match, JSTOR daily uses the database JSTOR to publish articles grounded in peer-reviewed research for free. Click the three-line icon in the top left for an index of topics to browse.
National Public Radio (NPR)
National Public Radio provides readers and listeners with up-to-date, well researched information about important news. Be sure to click on TOPICS in the menu bar to explore current topics.
The Conversation
The Conversation US is a source of independent news and views served to readers with academic rigor and a journalistic flair. Use the navigation bar at the top to explore topics.

Focusing Your Topic

As you do exploratory research on your topic, consider how other authors are discussing your topic:

What kind of language are they using, and is it the same language you're using?
Are authors identifying key ideas, events, or stakeholders about your topic?
Are there ideas of controversy or debate? Is the discussion open for further research?

As you explore what has already been written, it may help you figure out what questions and ideas you have on the topic. Academic writing is a conversation, and your voice is just as important as the voices of published authors!

Use the video below from Clemson University Libraries to learn more about joining the scholarly conversation.

Questions To Ask Yourself About Your Topic

Posing questions about your topic will help you identify an aspect of the topic you'd like to focus on. Start with some of the questions listed on the infographic/handout below. Which questions seem most important and interesting to you?