Working with a Narrow Topic
If your topic is too narrow:
- You will not find enough information
- You will spend too much time tracking down information
- Your assignment will lack depth
Expanding a Narrow Topic
Here are some strategies for expanding the scope of a question:
- Don’t limit your topic to specific issues, such as time, place or population
- Think of other issues that are related to your topic, that might provide additional information
- Consult a subject encyclopedia to get a broader perspective on your topic
Example
You have chosen as your topic, the effects of television violence in programming on children from single parent homes in Los Angeles. You may be able to find one or two studies that could be relevant but you will likely have a hard time locating enough information.
Try being less specific, to expand your topic.
Here are a few examples:
- Exclude geographic locations such as Los Angeles
The effects of television violence on children from
single parent homes - Think of other relevant issues that may provide more information
Television violence in children’s programming
The role of television in single parent homes
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Activity: Too broad, too narrow, just right?
