Develop Research Topics

Trying to decide on a topic for your research paper? This page includes information on how to find resources on current events, where to look for topic inspiration, and a video that walks you through the topic selection process.

Finding quality resources on current events (events that are currently unfolding or have happened within the past 6 or so months) can be tricky. This box has some information and links that can help you, but consider asking a librarian for additional assistance.

• Peer-reviewed scholarship
  • You may not find peer-reviewed scholarship about current events. The peer-review process usually lasts at least six months, but may last two years or longer.
  • Often, similar past events have already been the subject of peer-reviewed scholarship. These may provide helpful context for your research on current events.
  • VCU Libraries databases are a good place to find scholarly research on your topic. Here is a comprehensive list of our databases.
  • If you need help choosing a database or questions about how to navigate a databases, contact a subject specialist librarian or Ask Us!
• News articles and social media
  • News articles do cover current events. This Find News Sources Guide will help you locate news sources in our collections.
  • Social media can provide immediate coverage of events.
  • Keep in mind:
    • Just because something is reported quickly does not mean that it is accurate.
    • Newspapers and social media do not have neutral points of view.
    • All sources should be evaluated for their relevance for your research.
    • The Evaluate My Resources Guide will help you evaluate your sources.
  • Need help finding or evaluating news and social media? Contact a subject specialist librarian or Ask Us!

This videos shares insight on how even thinking about topics counts as doing research!