Tips to Find the Right Research Topic for PhD Studies

By: Edu Lahore on April 22, 2019

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Finally you are starting your PhD degree, but you are still unsure about what topic to choose. You need to understand that finding the right topic is not as easy as you may initially think, but with patience and the right attitude, you can achieve success.

Here are useful tips to help you find the right research topic for your PhD studies:

• Go through Dissertations: 

Before finalizing your thesis topic, go through several dissertations on related subject to get better understanding of different concepts and individual research styles.  This will help you find your own writing style and will enhance your perspective on various topics.

• Select a Topic that Interests You:  

Choose a topic which interests you and do search for it extensively. Listen to your professor’s suggestion but make your own choice.  After all you are becoming an independent researcher. So make sure you select the topic which you like.

• Check out Old Resources for Ideas:   

Check out your old resources to get innovative idea or go through previous researches which you have done during your graduate years.

• Work on Several Ideas Instead of One:  

It is better to work on several ideas in the beginning, you should be open to new options. Begin with one and consider multiple variations. Keep thinking about different new topics as you can. All of them won’t be useful but will bring you closer to the chosen idea.  

• Test the Potential of Your Idea:  

Before deciding and starting working on the research topic, you should spend time in advance to know if this is the right idea. Make sure nobody has already done research on the similar topic. Try to bring argument supporting the importance of your research. Go through the needed resources and information to test the potential of your topic.

• Stick to the Point: 

 Many PhD students start their studies with over-ambitious projects. The aim is to ensure that huge topic can be resumed into one central research question.

• Be Open to New Ideas:  

Through consistent research and thorough testing you can be sure that your main research question will change form. Be flexible and open to new evidences. The focus of your thesis is to find the answers even if they make you uncomfortable.

• Seek Guidance from Your Professor:  

Before deciding on your doctoral dissertation, seek guidance from your experts. This is also an interesting way to investigate your ideas in advance. Accept problematic questions, as they offer a general view on your work. Therefore, regular communication with your PhD advisor is necessary for your success.

Before starting your work, you should know that there will probably be time when you will feel fed up with your chosen topic. It is common to feel that you might have chosen the wrong research topic. Stay calm and remember that difficult moments help develop your doctoral dissertation and bring it to a successful completion.