Final answer:
When preparing to write, regardless of whether the topic is assigned or chosen, consider your connection to the topic, who your audience is, the scope of the topic, and how you will conduct your research. Ensure that the topic you pick is well-defined, interesting to you, and suitable for your readership.
Step-by-step explanation:
No matter if you have a specific topic assigned, or if you get to choose your own topic, there are several considerations that must be taken into account when preparing to write a paper, report, or essay. The process of selecting a topic involves reflection on your interests, acknowledging the readership, understanding the scope, and recognizing constraints that may influence your writing.
Subject of the Topic:
First, define what the piece is going to be about. If a topic has been assigned, you'll need to find an angle or a unique approach to present your interpretation. When choosing your own topic, make sure it’s something significant to you, which will enhance your engagement with the material, and in turn, allow for a more personal and genuine discussion in your writing
Writer and Readers:
It is key to consider who the writer is and what is known about their viewpoint or biases, as this will frame the narrative of the paper. Additionally, understanding who the readers are and what their interests might be is crucial for directing the tone and structure of the discussion. An awareness of the audience can also influence the depth and complexity of content presented.
Scope of the Topic:
The scope of your topic is essential; it should be well-defined but broad enough to write a comprehensive essay, and yet narrow enough to be covered within the constraints of the assignment. You may need to either narrow or expand your initial topic to hit that ‘Goldilocks’ zone - not too broad, not too narrow.
Gather Ideas and Conduct Research:
To gather ideas about your topic, consider using various methods such as brainstorming, consulting outside sources, and conducting preliminary research. This exploration can help identify current events or new information that relate to your topic and ensure your content is loaded with relevant details.
In preparing for the study, you should not only think about the study topic itself but also how you, as the researcher, will prepare. Personal, social, and physical sacrifices may be required, and you’ll need to think about data collection methods and organizational systems. Consider all the options and undertake the topic that allows you to write with authority and originality.