The hardest part of research is often getting started or developing a topic. Consider the following when you're developing your topic:
Interest. Pick a topic that's interesting to you. Research is much more enjoyable if you care about your topic.
Knowledge. You don't need to know much about your topic--even a little bit of knowledge, however, does help.
Explore. Look at your textbook or class notes. Talk with a friend or family member. Browse the table of contents of core athletic training journals: American Journal of Sports Medicine, Journal of Athletic Training, JOSPT, Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, or Physical Therapy.
Focus. Make sure your topic is not too broad (traumatic brain injury) or too narrow (How does traumatic brain injury affect retired boxers with Parkinson's Disease?) It's always a good idea to test drive a topic before you commit. Are you drowning in results? Or did you find very little information? After you've done a bit of research, it is common to find that may find that you need to tweak or refine your topic
Guidelines. Read your assignment carefully. Must the topic be related to the course? Can you choose a topic? The assignment should provide some guidance in topic choice. If it doesn't, talk with your professor.
Image source: Rapple, Brandon. Choosing a Topic. Boston College.