Before you begin your research, you need to find your topic. 

 Select a topic that interests you in some way.

Choosing a topic that interests you will engage you in the writing process - you will enjoy the research and your passion for your topic will come through in your writing

In some cases, you will be assigned a general topic like "anxiety." You still have control: narrow your focus to some aspect of the general topic.  Find something that interests you and that you can cover well. 

 Once you identify your topic, do the following:

• list key words that will help you look up information about your topic
• brainstorm questions about your topic - what do you think you need to find out?
• create a timeline for your paper/project, working backward from the due date

Next step: Develop a working outline.