Now that you have a general understanding of the topic, it's time to find a FOCUS— a specific aspect you're interested in. Look back at all the questions your background research raised and choose one that interests you.

Narrow the topic! A well-defined topic is limited in scope, allowing you to analyze it from multiple angles. Your supervisor and the Librarian can help you with this, of course.

THINGS TO DO

Identify key issues, topics and vocabulary.  Ask questions:

• Who or what is affected by the topic?

• What are the facts / causes / issues around the topic?

• What sub-topics relate to the broader topic?

• Where is there disagreement among the experts?

• What questions do my sources raise?

These are all potentially rich areas for focusing your subject