Brainstorming Strategy: Asking Questions
Brainstorming is the process by which ideas are produced using techniques like concept mapping, free-writing, etc. Choosing a topic can be a difficult process when starting an assignment, writing a paper, or working on an oral presentation. Brainstorming can be used to choose a topic or narrow down a broad topic.
ASKING QUESTIONS
WHO
- Who are the important / influential people (artists, designers, critics, writers, philosophers etc.) involved with my topic? This could also be a group or organization rather than an individual.
- Who is the audience or end user?
WHAT
- What are some examples of this topic? A work of art, building, film, product, service, etc.?
- What is it made of, what does it look like, what style is it?
- What are the creator’s aims, goals or concerns?
WHEN
- What time period(s) are appropriate to this topic?
- Has it been around for a long time, or is it new?
- How did it originate?
- If it is historical, what are the important milestone dates in its history?
WHERE
- Is it tied to a specific country, state, city or geographic area?
- Has it been relocated to multiple places and if so, where?
- What is the importance of place to my topic?
HOW
- Has this topic/idea/work influenced others?
- How does it relate to the larger culture or context?
WHY
- Is this topic/idea important–to others, and to me?
Information adapted from the GVSU Libraries Subject Guides.
RELATED IDEAS
Meet with a Consultant
Have other questions? Research consultants can help! We specialize in brainstorming topics, finding sources, reading scholarly materials, and evaluating research.
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