It is important to brainstorm different aspects of your topic before you start searching. You don't want a topic that is too broad (i.e. too big), which will give you too many results when you start searching. You also don't want a topic that is too narrow (i.e. too small), which will give you too few resources when you search.
In order to narrow a topic, ask yourself these questions before you start your research. Use the answers to help you narrow your topic into something more specific. You don't need long sentences. Short, specific phrases are fine.
WHO is interested in your topic? WHO cares about this topic? WHO can you focus on? (Be specific! Don't say everyone. Pick a specific population or group of people: doctors, women, teachers, etc.)
WHAT is interesting about your topic? WHAT do you want to learn? WHAT questions do you have? WHAT are some specific aspects?
WHERE in the world would you like to focus? (Again, be specific! Pick a country, city, etc.)
WHEN is your topic relevant? (This may not be used for searching but helps you frame your ideas.)
WHY is your topic important? WHY do people study it?
For more information on how to create a good research topic, watch this video:
video courtesy of Kansas State University
Before you start searching for articles, it's important to spend time brainstorming keywords. Keywords are the words and phrases we use when searching in the library. Watch this video for more information on keywords and creating a search strategy.
video courtesy of California State University, San Bernardino, Pfau Library