What Makes a Topic Too Broad?
* Too many potential causes and effects: A topic with too many possible causes and effects will be impossible to cover thoroughly in a single essay.
* Lack of focus: Broad topics lack the specific focus needed to develop a clear argument and analysis.
Examples of Topics Too Broad:
* The causes of poverty: Poverty is a complex issue with countless contributing factors.
* The effects of technology: Technology has a vast and multifaceted impact on society.
* The reasons for war: War has many historical, political, and social causes.
* The impact of globalization: Globalization touches every aspect of modern life, from economics to culture.
How to Narrow a Broad Topic:
* Focus on a specific time period: Instead of "The causes of poverty," consider "The impact of automation on poverty in the United States since 2000."
* Choose a specific population: Instead of "The effects of technology," consider "The effects of social media on the mental health of teenagers."
* Limit the scope: Instead of "The reasons for war," consider "The role of nationalism in the outbreak of World War I."
* Identify a specific aspect: Instead of "The impact of globalization," consider "The effects of globalization on the textile industry in Bangladesh."
Remember: A strong cause-and-effect essay focuses on a specific and manageable topic, allowing you to explore the relationship between cause and effect in a detailed and insightful manner.
