Go from the general to the specific.

  • General: Online games  
    Specific:     Marketing "World of Warcraft"

  • General: Small business startups  
    Specific:     U.S. government assistance for new small businesses

But don't get too specific.

Top ten products for dog-grooming businesses


Often your topic will evolve and get more specific as you do the research.

Similarly, you should start with general research sources and work toward ones with specific information.

For example, start with an encyclopedia to get an overview, then go to a magazine article about a particular part of the topic.