Hewes Library: Research Process: 1a. Brainstorming

Brainstorming Topic Ideas

What interests you? Make a list.
Scan your textbook for broad topic ideas.
Peruse current periodicals and newspapers to see what catches your eye. Periodicals are located in Hewes Library across from the coffee shop.
Browse print encyclopedias in Hewes Library. Use the call number list below to browse in a subject area.
Search digital encyclopedias for topic keywords and gather background information.
Look at "hot topic" databases (see examples at right) that feature articles on current events and controversial issues.
Discuss potential topics with your instructor, a librarian or a classmate.

A	General works	PB-PH	Modern European Languages
B-BJ	Philosophy, Psychology	PG	Russian Literature
BL-BX	Religion	PJ-PM	Languages and Lit of Asia, Africa
C	Auxiliary Sciences of History	PN, PR, PS, PZ	General Literature
D	History: General and Old World		English and American Literature
E-F	History: America	PQ, part 1	French Literature
G	Geography, Anthropology	PQ, part 2	Italian, Spanish, Portuguese Lit
H	Social Science	PT, part 1	German Literature
J	Political Science	PT, part 2	Dutch and Scandinavian Lit
KD	Law of the United Kingdom/Ireland	Q	Science
KF	Law of the United States	R	Medicine
L	Education	S	Agriculture
M	Music	T	Technology
N	Fine Arts	U	Military Science
P-PA	General Philology and Linguistics	V	Naval Science
	Classical Languages and Lit	Z	Bibliography, Library Science

Browse/Search these Library resources for inspiration

CQ Researcher This link opens in a new window Online version of the weekly print publication noted for its in-depth, balanced coverage and analysis of contemporary issues. Learn more

PRO / CON Provides the pros and cons of controversial issues shaping our society. Entries are supported with background information that delves into the issue, with pro and con arguments, verified facts and additional reading.

Statista This link opens in a new window Statista is a statistics portal that integrates and visually displays data from thousands of sources. Conduct a keyword search or explore the TOPICS link at the top of the page.

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