Thursday, August 29, 2019

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How to Become a Makeup Artist

Posted: 29 Aug 2019 05:00 PM PDT

If you've perfected the smokey eye and can tell what color lipstick would look great on someone based on a quick assessment of their complexion, becoming a makeup artist might be the right career path for you. To build a career in makeup artistry, start by developing your skills through online tutorials and practicing on friends and family. Consider enrolling in school to gain formal training, or getting a job at a makeup counter for professional experience. Either way, you'll need to create a strong network and portfolio to kickstart your career in makeup.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Developing Your Skills

  1. Study famous makeup vloggers on YouTube or Instagram. Online video tutorials can be an excellent (and free!) way to get started learning more about makeup artistry. Find makeup artists whose looks match the styles you're most interested in learning.[1]
    Become a Makeup Artist Step 1 Version 2.jpg
    • Keep in mind that, while tutorials are a great starting point, there's no substitute for in-person training and experience.
  2. Practice applying makeup on both yourself and your friends. This will help you develop your technique and perfect your craft. Remember that even though you may be a superstar at doing your own makeup, applying others' makeup takes a different set of motor skills and coordination.[2]
    Become a Makeup Artist Step 2 Version 2.jpg
    • Apply makeup to people with different skin colors, face shapes, eye colors, and ages. This will help you develop the skills you need to work with a wide range of clients.
    • Begin to put together a "kit"—the brushes, makeup, and other tools you use regularly. These can be drugstore brands to start out. As you develop your career, you'll be able to afford more expensive products.[3]
  3. Familiarize yourself with current makeup trends. Read magazines, scour fashion blogs, watch films, go to plays, and pay attention to the different trends and styles of face makeup. It is important to be up-to-date on current beauty trends so that you can advise clients.[4]
    Become a Makeup Artist Step 3 Version 2.jpg
    • Clients may request that you recreate a certain look that a celebrity had at an awards show or in a magazine. You will need to learn the terminology involved in makeup artistry so that you can effectively bring your clients' descriptions to life.

[Edit]Getting Education and Professional Experience

  1. Enroll in a makeup artist school that suits your schedule and budget. Since makeup artistry is not a licensed profession, states don't mandate course offerings from makeup artist programs—meaning that the curriculum varies widely between schools. Some schools offer full-time classes that cover all the bases, while others allow you to pick and choose courses that focus on particular industries or skills. These programs also vary widely in cost, with full-time schools being the most expensive.[5]
    Become a Makeup Artist Step 4.jpg
    • Typically, makeup training programs run 300-600 hours and can be completed in less than 6 months.[6]
    • Going to school is not a requirement for becoming a successful makeup artist. It may give you a boost in a very competitive field, however.[7]
  2. Earn a degree in cosmetology for a wider range of job prospects. Enroll in a private cosmetology school or, for a less pricey option, attend a community college with a cosmetology program. With a cosmetology license, you can work in a beauty salon or spa applying makeup, which will give you access to a greater number of jobs.[8]
    Become a Makeup Artist Step 5 Version 2.jpg
    • Full cosmetology programs require 1,500-2,000 hours and last 12-24 months.[9]
    • During cosmetology training, you will also learn other beauty services including hair, nail and skin care.
  3. Find a job at a cosmetics counter to gain professional experience. Apply for positions at department stores or pharmacies. You'll have the opportunity to practice your skills on hundreds of people with different complexions, styles, and expectations. Best of all, you'll get paid to practice your skills.[10]
    Become a Makeup Artist Step 6 Version 2.jpg
    • Retail experience is helpful for landing jobs in department and beauty stores, since your job will be selling cosmetics in addition to your makeup artistry services.
    • Search for a company that is dedicated to training its employees in applying makeup, rather than focusing entirely on sales.
  4. Join a local theater group to practice a different kind of makeup. Theater groups—at your school if you're a student, or in the wider community—are a great place to explore your creativity. You'll get a chance to practice a different style of makeup, learn to use greasepaint, and work with theatrical lighting.[11]
    Become a Makeup Artist Step 7 Version 2.jpg
  5. Land an internship or apprenticeship with a respected makeup artist. Find a top makeup artist in your local area whose work you admire and ask if they would be willing to take on an apprentice or intern. Make it clear that you're eager to get real-world experience in the makeup industry.[12]
    Become a Makeup Artist Step 8.jpg
    • If they can't commit to an internship, ask if you can shadow them for a day or two. Even a few hours of observation could teach you tons of new techniques.


[Edit]Creating a Portfolio

  1. Find models to showcase your looks. While they don't have to be professional models, find people whose makeup you enjoy doing and whose faces are compatible with your style. Consider snapping some "before and after" photos of your models to include in your portfolio.
    Become a Makeup Artist Step 9.jpg
    • Consider doing trade-for-print work with models.
  2. Get creative with collaborations to build your portfolio. Ask your friend who's making a music video if she could use your makeup artistry services, or offer to do your coworker's wedding makeup. You'll hone your skills and start making a name for yourself at the same time.[13]
    Become a Makeup Artist Step 10.jpg
    • You may even need to volunteer your services in the beginning stages of your career to develop more content for your portfolio.
  3. Take high-quality photographs of your work. Consider investing in a high-end camera or hire a photographer to help you put your portfolio together. The quality of the photographs can make or break a portfolio.[14]
    Become a Makeup Artist Step 11.jpg
    • If you're still early in your career, it's acceptable to take photos with your phone camera. Just make sure that your photos are well-lit and crisp.[15]
  4. Create a compelling portfolio that features all types of makeup styles. Your portfolio should reflect the brand you are creating. Your best, most creative work should be showcased at the front so prospective clients get an immediate impression of your unique talent. Include a range of makeup styles, from fashion to special effects to film and television.[16]
    Become a Makeup Artist Step 12.jpg
    • Your portfolio should exist both online and in print. The benefit of an online portfolio is that it reaches a larger audience and can be promoted through various forms of social media.


[Edit]Building Your Career

  1. Focus on the fashion industry if you're good under pressure. Once you've gained basic education or professional experience (or both!), you'll need to determine what industry to focus on. Makeup artists who work in fashion are typically asked to employ their services at runway shows and fashion shoots.[17]
    Become a Makeup Artist Step 13.jpg
    • You may be called upon to work fast in stressful environments, like cramped backstage areas at fashion shows or outdoors in inclement weather during shoots.
    • In this field, looks are led by the editor, designer, or fashion photographers rather than the makeup artist.
    • You'll often work as part of a stylist and hair team to help prepare models.
  2. Look for jobs in the television or film industry for a wide range of gigs. Most makeup artists are employed by the television and film industry, which offers a variety of opportunities in different styles of makeup. Applying makeup to a newscaster calls for a more natural look, while doing makeup on a sci-fi television show would require special effects work and a more imaginative style.[18]
    Become a Makeup Artist Step 14.jpg
    • Precision is important when working as a makeup artist in this industry. The crisper and clearer our television screens get, the easier it is to tell if someone's makeup isn't perfectly applied.
  3. Freelance as a makeup artist for a more flexible work schedule. Many makeup artists build a lucrative career from freelance projects, moving from gig to gig with their kit in hand. People often hire makeup artists when preparing for photo shoots of bridal and wedding parties, family reunions, or graduations.[19]
    Become a Makeup Artist Step 15.jpg
    • Use word-of-mouth to promote your talents. Ask friends and family to consider hiring you to do their makeup for weddings, parties, or other formal occasions
  4. Market yourself, particularly on social media. Whether you want to land a full-time job with a particular company or work as a freelancer on a project-by-project basis, start marketing yourself to get the word out that you're looking for makeup artistry work. Social media channels like Instagram and YouTube are very important, as well as a personal blog or even a Pinterest page.[20]
    Become a Makeup Artist Step 16.jpg

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

  • One important factor to consider when pursuing makeup artistry is whether or not you are totally committed to the craft. Because it is a competitive field, you may spend your first few years working very hard for very little pay. Eventually, your hard work will pay off if you stay committed and love what you do.

[Edit]Related wikiHows

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

  1. https://www.backstage.com/magazine/article/become-makeup-artist-1358/
  2. https://www.teenvogue.com/story/makeup-artist-tips
  3. https://www.backstage.com/magazine/article/become-makeup-artist-1358/#makeupkit
  4. https://www.backstage.com/magazine/article/become-makeup-artist-1358/
  5. https://www.makeupartistessentials.com/what-will-i-learn-in-makeup-artist-school/
  6. https://www.beautyschoolsdirectory.com/faq/makeup-artist.php#How-do-I-become-a-makeup-artist
  7. https://www.backstage.com/magazine/article/become-makeup-artist-1358/
  8. https://www.makeupartistessentials.com/should-i-become-a-makeup-artist-or-a-cosmetologist/
  9. https://www.beautyschoolsdirectory.com/faq/makeup-artist.php#How-do-I-become-a-makeup-artist
  10. https://www.beautyschoolsdirectory.com/faq/makeup-artist.php#How-do-I-become-a-makeup-artist
  11. https://www.beautyschoolsdirectory.com/faq/makeup-artist.php#How-do-I-become-a-makeup-artist
  12. https://www.teenvogue.com/story/makeup-artist-tips
  13. https://www.beautyschoolsdirectory.com/faq/makeup-artist.php#How-do-I-become-a-makeup-artist
  14. https://www.beautyschoolsdirectory.com/faq/makeup-artist.php#How-do-I-become-a-makeup-artist
  15. https://www.backstage.com/magazine/article/become-makeup-artist-1358/#makeupportfolio
  16. https://www.backstage.com/magazine/article/become-makeup-artist-1358/#makeupportfolio
  17. https://www.makeupartistedu.org/careers/
  18. https://www.makeupartistedu.org/careers/
  19. https://www.beautyschoolsdirectory.com/faq/makeup-artist.php#How-do-I-become-a-makeup-artist
  20. https://www.teenvogue.com/story/makeup-artist-tips

How to Prevent Ankle Sprains

Posted: 29 Aug 2019 09:00 AM PDT

It's critical to avoid ankle injuries if you're an athlete or enjoy being physically active, and sprains are the most common type of ankle injury you'll face. Fortunately, you can reduce your risk of an ankle sprain by doing balance training, stretching your ankle and surrounding muscles, doing ankle strengthening exercises, and making lifestyle changes. It's also important to get proper treatment and recover fully if you have a sprain, and you may choose to take measures like taping or bracing your ankle to further reduce your chance of sprains.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Stretching and Strengthening Your Ankles

  1. Massage your calves, Achilles, and ankles with your knuckles. Use your knuckles to apply light to moderate pressure to your ankles and the areas surrounding them. Massage in small circles over these areas for around 5 minutes before engaging in physical activity, or whenever your ankle joints feel tight.[1]
    Prevent Ankle Sprains Step 1.jpg
    • For the best results, have a physical therapist or athletic trainer do the massage and show you the proper technique. Then you can do it yourself whenever necessary.
  2. Do calf stretches with your hands against a wall. Face the wall, lean slightly forward, extend your arms, and place your palms flat against the wall at shoulder height. Take a half step forward with your left leg, keep the knee bent slightly, and keep your left foot flat on the floor. Slide your right foot slightly back so that you can extend it fully but comfortably keep your right foot flat on the floor.[2]
    Prevent Ankle Sprains Step 2.jpg
    • Once you've gotten in the proper position, lean your upper body a bit more toward the wall until you feel your right calf stretching slightly. Keep both feet flat on the floor. Hold the stretch for 15-30 seconds.
    • Then, return to the starting position and bend your right knee slightly until your feel your calf stretching again. Keep your feet flat on the floor and hold this stretch for 15-30 seconds.
    • After that, switch the positioning of your legs and repeat the stretches.
    • Instead of leaning against a wall, you can lay your palms flat on the edge of a sturdy table.
  3. Sit on a chair and push each foot against a wall. Position the chair so that it's facing the wall and you can sit in it, extend one leg fully, and touch the entire bottom of your foot to the wall. Once you do so, push your foot firmly against the wall and hold the position for 5-10 seconds, then release the push without moving your foot. Repeat the push 9 more times, then switch feet for 10 more reps.[3]
    Prevent Ankle Sprains Step 3.jpg
    • Do 2-3 sets of 10 reps for each leg.
    • Consider adjusting your foot position while doing 3 sets—do one with your foot pointed straight up, one with it rotated slightly inward, and one with it rotated slightly outward.
  4. Do seated pedal-pushes with a resistance band. Sit in a chair, loop the resistance band around your foot just behind your toes, and hold the ends of the band in your hands. Touch your heel to the floor, keep the rest of your foot angled upward, and hold the band taut. Press down against the resistance of the band for 1 second, as if you're pressing the accelerator pedal of a car.[4]
    Prevent Ankle Sprains Step 4.jpg
    • Do 3 sets of 10 reps per foot.
    • You can buy elastic resistance bands at any fitness supply retailer. Different bands have different resistance levels, so start with a lower resistance and work your way up as your ankle strength increases.
  5. Try forward, back, and side-to-side leg kicks with your resistance band. Loop the band around the leg of a sturdy table, then tie the ends of the band around your left ankle. Stand with the outside of your left ankle facing the table leg, far enough away so that the resistance band is taut. Slowly kick your leg forward 10 times, backward 10 times, and inward (away from the table leg) 10 times.[5]
    Prevent Ankle Sprains Step 5.jpg
    • Then, turn 90 degrees so you're facing the table, and kick your left leg outward 10 times.
    • After that, tie the band around your right leg and repeat the exercises.
    • You can also wrap the resistance band around a sturdy post or beam.

[Edit]Enhancing Your Range of Motion

  1. Lie down on your back and raise your legs in the air. Get comfortable on an exercise mat, rug, or mattress. Then, bend at your hips so that your legs are at a 90 degree angle to the rest of your body.[6]
    Prevent Ankle Sprains Step 6.jpg
    • If necessary, place pillows under your body to help get yourself comfortable. You shouldn't feel any pain during the exercises.
  2. Make slow circles with your feet to warm up your ankles. Keep your leg pointing straight up in the air. Gently move your ankle in a circular motion. Make your circles as big as you comfortably can.[7]
    Prevent Ankle Sprains Step 7.jpg
    • Do 10 circles in 1 direction, then reverse and do 10 circles in the other direction.
  3. Move your foot back and forth like you're pushing on a pedal. With your legs sticking in the air, slowly rock your foot back and forth. Pull your toes back toward your ankle, then press your toes down into a point. Continue to go back and forth in a fluid motion.[8]
    Prevent Ankle Sprains Step 8.jpg
    • This motion is similar to pushing a gas pedal on a car.
    • Do 10-15 ankle pumps.
  4. Trace the letters of the alphabet using your foot. With your leg straight up in the air, act like you're writing the letters of the alphabet with your toe. Try to make the letters as big as possible so that you have to really move your ankle. Keep your leg straight the entire time, being careful that you don't bend your knee.[9]
    Prevent Ankle Sprains Step 9.jpg
    • Do the exercise twice, and try to make your letters bigger the second time.
    • Don't do anything that feels uncomfortable. If you need to, modify the exercise to fit your needs by going slow or making smaller movements.

[Edit]Improving Your Balance

  1. Start by balancing on each leg with your eyes open. Stand up straight with your feet facing forward and shoulder width apart. Raise one of your feet so that your lower leg is parallel to the floor, or as close to parallel as you can manage. Hold the pose for 30-60 seconds, then return to the starting position and switch legs.[10]
    Prevent Ankle Sprains Step 10.jpg
    • Focus your eyes on a stationary object, like a poster on the wall or a nearby exercise machine.
    • To aid your balance, hold your arms straight ahead or straight to your sides, palms down. If you need extra help, place one hand on a nearby table, countertop, or similar sturdy object.
    • Do this pose 2-3 times on each leg per workout. Aim to do balance training workouts at least 3 times per week.
    • Balance training is known as proprioception. Your body's joints—and your ankle joints in particular here—will make constant adjustments to keep you balanced, strengthening them in the process.
  2. Advance on to doing leg balances with your eyes closed. Once you can easily balance on one leg with your eyes open for 60 seconds, do the same maneuver with your eyes closed. Close them as soon as you raise your leg to the proper position, and open them when you're ready to lower your leg.[11]
    Prevent Ankle Sprains Step 11.jpg
    • The first time you try this, place your hand on a sturdy object like a tabletop—it's noticeably more challenging to balance with your eyes closed!
    • Do 2-3 repetitions (reps) of 30-60 seconds per leg during each workout.
  3. Move on to trying one-legged half-squats with your eyes open. After you've mastered balancing for 60 seconds with your eyes closed, go back to keeping your eyes open. This time though, dip down slightly by bending the knee of your leg that's still on the floor—aim to drop down about . Hold this "half-squat" for 1 second, then return to the one-leg balance position and repeat.[12]
    Prevent Ankle Sprains Step 12.jpg
    • Do 10 half-squats on one leg, then switch to the other. Do 2-3 sets of 10 reps each for each leg.
    • Hold your arms straight ahead with your palms down to aid your balance. If you need additional support when starting out, grasp one or both hands on the back of a sturdy chair.
  4. Close your eyes and try the one-legged half-squats. This is where you get to put it all together. After you can handle the open-eyed half-squats, try the same thing with your eyes closed. Use the back of a chair for support the first time, though, or you may tumble over![13]
    Prevent Ankle Sprains Step 13.jpg
    • As before, aim to do 2-3 sets of 10 reps with each leg, at least 3 times per week.

[Edit]Supporting and Protecting Your Ankles

  1. Choose well-fitting athletic shoes that keep your ankles neutral. Wearing athletic shoes that keep your ankle in a neutral position—that is, not rotated inward, outward, forward, or backward—may make you less susceptible to ankle sprains. Consider shopping at a specialty shoe retailer where they can do a "gait analysis" and custom fit your shoes.[14]
    Prevent Ankle Sprains Step 14.jpg
    • Many people believe that high-top athletic shoes provide more ankle support and protection than low-tops, but there isn't much evidence to prove this either. Consider it a matter of personal preference.[15]
  2. Wear professionally-fitted ankle braces when doing athletic activities. Whether you've experienced ankle sprains before or not, research indicates that bracing your ankles will reduce your chances of spraining them during athletic activities. There are a variety of lace-up, hook-and-loop closure, soft, and semi-rigid braces to choose from, and your best option is to work with your doctor, physical therapist, and/or athletic trainer to find the best option for you.[16]
    Prevent Ankle Sprains Step 15.jpg
    • A professionally-fitted brace is more likely to provide the support and protection you need, while not overly restricting your range of motion.
  3. Tape up your ankles properly as an alternative to braces. Ankle braces might offer slightly more protection against sprains, but a good tape job is another solid option. Like a brace, taping up your ankle increases stability and support without sacrificing too much range of motion.[17]
    Prevent Ankle Sprains Step 16.jpg
    • It's important that you tape up your ankles properly, so that you get the right protection and don't overly constrict your blood flow or range of motion. Have a trainer or other professional show you how to tape up the right way before trying it yourself.
    • There are many different ways to tape or wrap an ankle—a general tape job, a pro-level tape job, a typical wrap, an ACE bandage wrap, or a wrap for a sprain, to name some examples.
    • Generally, though, you need to create a base wrap below, over, and above the ankle, create "stirrups" that run down the sides of the ankle, and then wrap several figure 8 patterns around the ankle.
  4. Get treatment and allow for recovery time after a sprain. If you sprain your ankle, you must give it time to heal. Otherwise, you'll be much more likely to sprain it again, perhaps even more seriously. If you experience a sprain, contact your doctor for treatment advice and, depending on the severity, an exam and treatment. Follow their recovery recommendations carefully.[18]
    Prevent Ankle Sprains Step 17.jpg
    • Some sprains take 1-2 days to heal, while others may take 6 weeks or more and, in some cases, require surgery.
    • For mild sprains, you doctor will likely advise rest, applying an ice pack wrapped in a towel several times per day, and possibly wrapping the ankle with a bandage or brace.

[Edit]Making Lifestyle Changes

  1. Eat an anti-inflammatory diet to help protect your joints. Build your diet around fish and other lean proteins, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables. Make sure you eat healthy fats with your meals, but keep unhealthy saturated fats to a minimum. Cut out processed foods and simple sugars, and limit red meat.[19]
    Prevent Ankle Sprains Step 18.jpg
    • It's okay to drink small amounts of red wine on an anti-inflammatory diet, such as 1 glass per day.
    • Chronic inflammation can weaken your joints or make them feel more painful.[20] Because of this, it's good for your ankles if you reduce inflammation in your body.
  2. Maintain a healthy weight to put less pressure on your joints. Carrying extra weight on your body puts added pressure on your joints, especially your ankles. Additionally, it may affect your balance and could increase your risk of spraining your ankle. To lower your risk, talk to your doctor to find out your healthy target weight. Then, work with your doctor or a dietitian to make changes to your diet or exercise routine to help you reach or maintain your goal weight.[21]
    Prevent Ankle Sprains Step 19.jpg
    • Everyone's needs are different, so it's best to talk to your doctor before trying to lose or gain weight.
    • If you're having trouble deciding what to eat, ask your doctor to refer you to a dietitian. They will help you design a diet plan that's both healthy and appetizing.
  3. Do 30 minutes of low impact cardio exercise daily. Exercising daily will help protect your bone and joint health and will help your heart stay healthy. Low impact exercises are easier on your joints, so they're a great option if you're worried about ankle injuries. Choose an exercise that gets your blood pumping but doesn't involve a lot of running or jumping. For instance, you might try:[22]
    Prevent Ankle Sprains Step 20.jpg

[Edit]References

How to Choose a Topic for Your Thesis

Posted: 29 Aug 2019 01:00 AM PDT

Choosing a topic for your thesis, whether it be for a master's, Ph.D., or undergraduate, can feel like a daunting task, but it can also be exciting. Your thesis is your chance to dive deep into a topic that interests you and contribute something new to your field. To pick the right topic for you, start by brainstorming potential topics without worrying if they're good or not. Then, narrow your topics based on feasibility and your personal strengths. Finally, start researching so you can craft a good thesis question.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Brainstorming Possible Topics

  1. Write down your main interests related to your field of study. Since you'll likely spend 2 years or more working on your thesis, it's best to pick something that interests you. Plus, this topic could shape the path you take in the future by directing where you go for your further studies or what type of job you get. To generate topics that interest you:[1]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 1.jpg
    • Review all of the classes you've taken and the subjects you've covered.
    • Think about why you got into your field of study.
    • Consider what you like to read about in your free time, especially things related to your field. This might be books, news articles, or blogs.
    • Think of people in your field who you admire or aspire to be like. Then, ask yourself what you like about them.
    • Consider if you'll continue your academic studies after graduation, as well as what you'd want to study.
  2. Go through your past coursework to find papers you enjoyed writing. You may be able to incorporate a paper you wrote as part of your coursework into your thesis to give you a jumping off point. Sort through the papers you've written in your last 2 years of study and identify any that stand out to you. Think about how much you enjoyed researching the topic you were writing about, as well as which topics felt easy.[2]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 2.jpg
    • Consider any lingering questions you had working on past projects as a starting point for your new thesis.
    • It's best to stick to your recent work because it will better reflect your current knowledge and abilities.
    • You can use the same topic you used in your prior work, or you can use your old work to point you in the direction of a new topic.
  3. Research current events to see what's happening in your field. Read the news to see what's happening in the world right now. Then, do a search on an academic database, like EBSCO or J-STOR, about your field of study or your interests and review the top results. Look for topics that are getting a lot of attention or where people are asking questions. These topics might be good for your thesis.[3]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 3.jpg
    • For example, let's say you're studying politics. You might read about current presidential candidates and reflect on how their platforms have diverted from the historical platforms for their political party.
    • If you're writing a literature thesis, look at the novels that are being nominated for this year's literary awards and consider their genre, theme, or style.
    • For a thesis on psychology, you might look for news about PTSD research or read articles about pop psychology that people are sharing on social media.
    • For an aeronautical engineering thesis, you could read up on what SpaceX is currently working on, or look into NASA's most recent experiments.
    • Check prominent research journals in the field you're interested in to see what current academic conversations look like.
    • Make a list of keywords that show up during your searches so you can look up published theses using sites like ProQuest. That way, you know what topics have already been covered.
  4. Look for gaps in current research related to your field. Your thesis should add something new to your field of study, which might seem daunting. However, reviewing current research can help. Consider which areas leave a lot of questions unanswered, then add those topics to your list of potential ideas.[4]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 4.jpg
    • You don't need a topic that's completely absent from research, as this would be difficult to examine.
    • One way to find a unique angle is to combine 2 topics together. Alternatively, you can build on someone else's work.
    • For example, let's say you're studying clinical psychology and want to write about PTSD. You might find that not much research has been done into how people with PTSD cope with workplace conflicts.
    • Similarly, let's say you're studying politics and want to look at how political party platforms evolve. You might find that there's a gap in research when it comes to evaluating how voters react to platform changes.
  5. Ask your professors which topic they think is right for you. Your instructors have a lot of insight into your field of study, as well as prior and current research. Additionally, they likely know a lot about you. They can help you understand the best paths of study for you, so find out what they think. Tell them about your goals, then ask for advice.[5]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 5.jpg
    • For instance, you might say, "I'm hoping to be a research professor one day, and I want to focus on modern poetry. Which of these thesis topics do you think would make me most attractive to doctoral programs?"
  6. Talk to your classmates about their lingering questions. This might help you recognize areas that need more research. Ask your classmates if they had any questions come to mind during the classes you took together. Additionally, consider asking to see their notes. Look for areas where they seemed to be confused or wrote questions in the margins.[6]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 6.jpg
    • Focus on questions that can be researched and don't have a simple answer. For instance, a question like, "How can we motivate people without offering them extrinsic rewards?" can be researched and doesn't have a simple answer. Conversely, the question, "When did free verse poems start to become mainstream?" is easy to answer with a simple Internet search.
  7. Think about what type of work you plan to do in the future. Your thesis may shape your future path because it can lead to other research opportunities. Plus, you'll build deeper knowledge and understanding about this topic, making it an asset on your resume. List the goals you have for yourself in the future, then come up with topics that can help you reach those goals.[7]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 7.jpg
    • You don't need to plan out your whole life. However, it's good to have an idea about where you're going.
    • Think about the type of work you want to do, the job title you want to attain, or the types of organizations you want to work with.
    • For instance, if you want to be a university professor, you might choose a topic that you plan to continue researching through your doctorate and career as a professor.
    • As another example, let's say you want to be a project manager for an engineering firm. You might choose a topic that encompasses both your knowledge of engineering and your interest in motivating other engineers to produce their best work.
  8. Make a list of 5-10 topics that might be interesting thesis topics. Include the best topics you generated during your brainstorming session. Try to include a range of ideas, as you'll eliminate most of them as you narrow your focus. However, having multiple ideas will make it easier to find one that offers a lot of opportunity for research.[8]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 8.jpg
    • Undergraduate theses may be more broad, while master's or Ph.D. theses should be more specific.
    • Choose the best topics that came to you while you were brainstorming.
    • You might enjoy doing this activity with a classmate who's also working on their thesis. You can bounce ideas off of each other.
    • For example, you might write down things like "evolution of political party platforms," "effect of civil war on cultural norms," "themes of literature immediately before and after a social crisis," "effects of robotics on the workforce," "mission to Mars," or "building intrinsic worker motivation."

[Edit]Narrowing Your Focus

  1. Eliminate topics that don't seem to offer avenues for new research. If a topic has already been well-researched, then it might not be great for your thesis. Think about what you can add to a topic. If you don't see a lot of room for growth, go ahead and cross that topic off your list.[9]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 9.jpg
    • For instance, you might love William Shakespeare, but finding a new area of research about his work could prove difficult. Similarly, if you're studying psychology, you'll likely want to avoid writing about older ideas that aren't widely supported anymore, like dream analysis.
  2. Choose your thesis supervisor once you have a general idea of what you'll research. Look for a professor who has expertise in the areas you want to study. Then, talk to them to see if they'd be willing to be your thesis supervisor. Tell them why you chose them specifically, as well as which topics you're considering pursuing.[10]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 10.jpg
    • Say something like, "Hi, Dr. Gomez. I know you're really knowledgeable about morality politics. I'm planning to write my thesis about a topic related to morality politics, so I hoped you might be my thesis supervisor."
  3. Discuss your top 1-3 topics with your thesis supervisor. Your thesis supervisor will help you pick your thesis topic based on what they think will be the best fit for both of you. Bring your thesis supervisor a short list of topics you're considering. Then, explain why each topic interests you and ask for their advice.[11]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 11.jpg
    • For example, you might say, "I'd like to write my thesis about modern American haiku structure, autobiographical expression in contemporary 21st-century poetry, or poetry in the Internet age."
    • Your thesis supervisor will likely want you to choose a topic that they know well and are interested in themselves.

[Edit]Crafting Your Thesis Question

  1. Conduct research into your topic. You need to fully understand your topic before you can formulate a thesis question. Use your library, Internet databases, journal articles, books, and other research materials to learn about your topic. As you read, annotate the materials by writing notes and questions in the margins.[12]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 12.jpg
    • This will help you figure out what types of questions to ask about your topic.
    • If you can, highlight or mark important passages and summarize sections of text in the margins of the work.
    • Talk to your librarian. They can help you find materials that might be of interest to you, and they can pull books or journals related to your topic.
  2. Write 5-7 potential thesis questions based on your research. At first, don't worry about writing good questions. After you have several that interest you, rewrite each question so that you can argue one side of the issue. Then, phrase your questions using clear, concise wording. Here are some example questions:[13]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 13.jpg
    • How did 20th-century warfare alter literary themes?
    • How have expanding cultural norms impacted the criteria for literary awards?
    • What social changes have impacted diplomatic exchanges among world leaders?
    • How does detaching morality from public policy affect the efficacy of legislation?
    • How does culture adapt in the aftermath of a civil war?
    • How can robotics enhance early childhood education?
    • What are the best ways to motivate employees to work harder?
    • What treatment protocols can enhance recovery in PTSD patients?
  3. Identify the question you think you can best research and answer. You want to select a question you can answer well so that your thesis will be successful. To determine the best question to focus your thesis on:[14]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 14.jpg
    • Think about the process you'd need to use to research the topic, such as a digital search, social experiments, or lab testing. Then, decide if you'd be able to complete these tasks with the time and resources you have.
    • List the research materials you have available to you, such as computer databases, library materials, or a laboratory.
    • Consider your thesis supervisor's area of expertise.
    • Think about the courses you've taken and the skills you've developed.
  4. Select a final research question with the help of your thesis supervisor. Once you've identified a thesis question that you'd like to use, talk to your thesis supervisor to get their opinion. They may approve it as-is, but they could also offer advice on how to improve it. Work with them to craft the best thesis question for your project.[15]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 15.jpg
    • Listen to your thesis supervisor's advice. They've likely been doing this for a long time, and they know what it's like to be in your shoes.

[Edit]Tips

  • Try to choose your topic as early as you can. This will help you stay on track to finish your thesis on time.
  • It's helpful to do additional research throughout the selection process. If you find texts that might be of use to you later, save them to use in your thesis.
  • Since you'll spend at least 1-2 years on your thesis, it's best to choose a topic that interests you.

[Edit]References

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