Writing a research thesis always starts with choosing a topic, followed by a lot of research to back up your argument. But there are a few other issues to consider when beginning the process.

The thesis should be your own work, be written in your own particular style of writing and should be a true reflection of your own point of view (otherwise known as opinion). It should also focus on one topic, not be a broad sweep of a number of topics. Whilst you may have enough supporting evidence for a broad subject, the detail and depth of the research produces a better research thesis than a generalised one.

When you are choosing your topic, you should be able to write in one sentence, the overarching statement that covers the topic of your research dissertation. But try not to make it too exaggerated or back you into a position whereby you will need to contradict yourself during the writing process.

For instance, you are considering the premise that a single examination at the end of a year is a better than a series of assignments and tests throughout the year as a way of determining a students knowledge of a subject.  But instead of stating what you really want which is to determine if marks are higher by using the one exam approach, you come up with the catchy title of “course work should be banned”.

You are then stuck with a one-dimensional aspect to a topic that could have encompassed a study of several schools and their students.

Of course, if you are not sure what research topic you should choose, or what angle you should be focusing on, you can always ask your supervisors opinion.