Refining your topic means that you're more specific about your research topic. This will help you focus your research question or your thesis. Not all of these questions apply all of the time, but even using one or two can help!
Ask yourself:
Writing your research question/thesis:
Your topic of interest is typically phrased as a one sentence statement at the beginning of your project. This statement (or thesis) should be specific. It will also need to cover what you are discussing in your paper and should be supported by the evidence you present.
It's okay if your thesis statement changes as you write! Research is an iterative process, so you may go through a few thesis statements before you finish your project.
If you feel lost, contact a librarian or your instructor -- they're able to help you think about your topic and focus it as necessary.
Encyclopedias, Biographies, or Handbooks are all excellent places to find more background information.
Use the resources below to start your search!