Stuck on finding a topic for a paper
Hey everyone :)
I'm currently struggling in finding a topic for a paper that I have to write for a course. The course was about group identities and conflicts in South Asia, with a heavy focus on India.
I was thinking to do some research on the Indian reservation system at universities, however I'm kinda stuck in formulating a question. I have discussed with some friends (all Indian) and some family members but somehow I didn't come to a topic yet. While my friends like to give their opinion on the caste system and the reservation system, I cannot make use of this atm because conducting qualitative interviews would be a bit too much work for this kind of paper.
I'm a bit afraid of reaching out to my professor and asking for help as she articulated it very clearly that she isn't a huge fan of students who need a lot of support. My family said that it's actually her job to support and guide me through my studies... However, I'm a bit ashamed to seek help and I'm also unsure how much I would need to prepare for a talk (e.g. all the research questions I have thought of so far but that just don't seem manageable; just a broader topic;...)
Do you guys know this problem as well? How do you come up with research questions? And how would you approach the situation with my professor?
Thanks in advance for sharing your ideas!
Hey there @olivePomegranate1427
Firstly, it's completely normal to feel a bit overwhelmed and unsure when trying to find the right topic for your paper. Many students face similar challenges, and it's okay to seek help and support during this process.
It's great that you've already tried discussing potential topics with your friends and family. Sometimes, bouncing ideas off others can be helpful in refining your thoughts. Even though qualitative interviews might not be feasible for this paper, you can still consider their perspectives and opinions as valuable insights that can inform your research.
When it comes to formulating research questions, it can indeed be a challenging task. One approach you might consider is breaking down the broader topic of the Indian reservation system into smaller, more manageable subtopics. This way, you can explore specific aspects that interest you the most. Another strategy is to review existing literature on the subject to identify gaps in knowledge or unanswered questions that you could potentially explore in your paper.
As for your professor, it's natural to feel hesitant about reaching out for help, especially if you're unsure of her response. However, professors are there to support and guide students in their academic journeys. If you approach her with a clear idea of what you've been considering so far, she might be more receptive and provide valuable insights or suggestions.
Remember, seeking guidance doesn't mean you're not capable; it shows that you are proactive about your learning and want to excel in your studies. Most professors appreciate students who take the initiative to ask for help.
If you're concerned about preparing for the talk with your professor, you could start by organizing your thoughts and notes about potential topics and research questions. Having a rough outline can give you some confidence during the discussion.
Lastly, don't be too hard on yourself. It's okay to take some time to figure things out. Finding the right topic is an essential part of producing a successful paper. Give yourself permission to explore and be open to adapting your ideas as you progress.
Good luck with your paper, and remember, it's alright to seek support and guidance along the way. You're not alone in facing these challenges, and with some perseverance, you'll find the perfect topic for your research. Take care!
