What shall I write about?

Finding a topic can be the hardest part of your writing process. Here
are a few tips to help!

First, be sure to write about something you care about. Why? It’s
more fun to research an interesting topic than read about something
that bores you, and your interest will come through in your writing.

Second, use some of the library’s resources to find or fine-tune a
topic. Two of the best places to look for current topics are Opposing Viewpoints and CQ Researcher.

Opposing Viewpoints offers full text “Viewpoint Essays” on both sides
of controversial issues, as well as articles, statistics, images and
web sites that are relevant and useful. There's a list of topics right on the front page, which makes it easy to find something you might want to write about -- then just click the topic, and see what's available. Remember, you'll need to select different tabs (Viewpoints, Reference, Statistics, etc.) to find all the available information. The Research Guide and Toolbox links at the top of each page are full of good information too -- don't miss them!

CQ Researcher offers longer objective essays about current topics.
Each one includes a brief pro/con section and links to further
information. If you’re new to CQ Researcher, watch this brief video
introduction for some helpful tips.

The Library also has a growing collection of online dictionaries and
encyclopedias with multimedia
articles, videos, maps, and more on a variety of topics.

Finally, if you have questions about any of these resources, you can contact a librarian -- our hours are limited in the summer, but we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

We can’t wait to see you next week . . . we’'ll have some
simple tips for developing awesome search strategies so you can find
exactly what you need! You don’t want to miss this one. See you then,
Robin and Sheila, Fusion Librarians