DEFIINING A TOPIC

Topics to be Avoided:

Controversial Topics: topics that are greatly-dependent on writer’s opinion

Highly-Technical Topics: topics that require an advanced study, technical

knowledge, and vast experience

Hard to Investigate Topics: topics that have scarce reading materials

Broad Topics: topics that are too broad that will prevent the researcher from
giving an in-depth analysis

Too Narrow: topics that are too limited or specific that an extensive or thorough
searching or reading for information about these is necessary

Vague Topics: topics that prevent the researcher from having a clear focus. Titles
that begin with indefinite adjectives [such as some, few, many, et al] are vague
enough to decrease the reader’s interest and curiosity.

Criteria in Selecting Topics:

1. Interestingness of the topic

2. Specificity/Limitedness
3. Relevance to the writer’s field of discipline
4. Familiarity of the writer with the topic
5. Availability of materials
6. Feasibility of the problem

Sources of Research Topics:

Research problems may exist in various settings such as schools, houses,
restaurants, clinics, or any place in the community. They are commonly found in
areas where there is/are:
 A feeling of discomfort like during recitation or in making projects;
 Perceived difficulties in the management and leadership of the class
president or the adviser;
  A gap between theory and practice;
 A daily experience of a person that requires further inquiry especially if
improvements are desired;
 A procedure that requires technologically-advanced equipment which
needs to function properly;
 A pattern or trend;
 A literature review

Some examples of ABM-focused topics:

 Trends in international commerce

 Current behavior patterns of consumers
 Trade and negotiation
 Employee diversity and positive work environment
 Effect of increased brand recognition on the performance of employees
 Social media as a new business platform
 Traditions and Practices of Entrepreneurs

RESEARCH TITLES

A Research Title is the first thing that is read in a research paper that outlines the
purpose of the research, the methods used, and the overall tone of the paper.

Characteristics of a Good Research Title:

 Summarize the main ideas of the paper
 Be a concise statement of the main topic
 Include the major variable/s
 Show the relationship of the main variables of the study
 Include the main task of the researcher about the major variables
under study; and
 Mention participants and setting