Getting Started: Brainstorming

 

I f you are having trouble starting your paper, you're not alone. Anxiety, frustration, and procrastination are common problems even professional writers face. Take a deep breath. Relax. Writing and research are hard, but worrying about it is worse. You can write a good paper, but to do that, you need to jump right in and get started. One of the best ways to do that is to brainstorm.

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On a sheet of paper answer these brainstorming questions:

 

What are your career plans? What topics could tie into your career plans--or even your current job?

What fascinates you? What would like to learn more about? Any possible topics for the paper there?

What hobbies do you have? Do you play any sports? Belong to any organizations/clubs? What topics for the paper do these suggest?

Think about local, regional, national, and international problems. What topics for the paper can you think of relating to these problems?

Consider new technologies. Are there any that are of particular interest to you? Do you know something about a particular technology (for example, processor speeds, virtual reality, graphics design, medical devices). What topics for the paper can you think of relating to technology?

Think about people you know: consider what they do, what their needs or problems are, what they are interested in. Any topics for the paper there?

Still having trouble? Take a look at the topic list; see anything there you like, or could expand upon?

Note: We recommend you save this brainstorming information for your records. Not only will this hardcopy serve as a reference for you, but proof that you did do this exercise if your instructor requires you to do a brainstorm.

 

 

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last updated on 3/30/99