Narrowing a TopicMake your results list more manageable. Less, but more relevant, information is key. Here are some options to consider when narrowing the scope of your paper: Theoretical approach: Limit your topic to a particular approach to the issue. For example, if your topic concerns cloning, examine the theories surrounding of the high rate of failures in animal cloning. Aspect or sub-area: Consider only one piece of the subject. For example, if your topic is human cloning, investigate government regulation of cloning. Time: Limit the time span you examine. For example,on a topic in genetics, contrast public attitudes in the 1950's versus the 1990's. Population group: Limit by age, sex, race, occupation, species or ethnic group. For example, ona topic in genetics, examine specific traits as they affect women over 40 years of age. Geographical location: A geographic analysis can provide a useful means to examine an issue. For example, if your topic concerns cloning, investigate cloning practices in Europe or the Middle East.

Steps in narrowing a topic: Step 1: choose a topic. Step 2: be a little more specific. Step 3: be even a little more specific. Step 4: change any vague words and make them more specific. Step 5: write a complete sentence. Step 6: write a complete (and arguable) sentence.