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Research Topic Evaluator
The fastest (and smartest) way to systematically evaluate potential research topics and find the best option.
Available in Google Sheet & Excel Format
4.9 star rating, 5000+ downloads
Step-By-Step Instructions
Tried & Tested Format
Fill-In-The-Blanks Simplicity
Pro Tips, Tricks and Resources
How It Works
This easy-to-use worksheet helps you to systematically evaluate potential research topic options based on a comprehensive set of criteria:
- Topic originality/novelty
- Value and significance
- Data access
- Equipment access
- Time constraints and requirements
- Literature base
- Supervisor accessibility
- Ethical considerations
- Personal appeal
- Project risk
By rating each of your prospective research topics against these criteria, you’ll be able to make a well-informed choice about which option is best for you. This will also lay the foundation for your topic justification, which you’ll need to present in your research proposal.
The worksheet is 100% free to use and you can edit the criteria (and their weightings) to suit your specific needs and university parameters.
FAQs: Research Topic Evaluator Worksheet
FAQ - Research Topic Evaluator
What types of research projects can this be used for?
This worksheet can be used for any academic research project, including dissertations, theses and research papers.
Keep in mind that each program and university will have unique expectations in terms of what constitutes a suitable research topic, so be sure to adjust the evaluation criteria accordingly.
Is this worksheet for an undergrad, Master or PhD-level thesis?
This worksheet can be used for a dissertation, thesis or research project at any level of study. Doctoral-level projects typically require higher levels of originality and value, so be sure to adjust the weighting for each criterion according to your program’s requirements.
Can I share this worksheet with my friends/colleagues?
Yes, you’re welcome to share this worksheet in its original format (no editing allowed). If you want to post about it on your blog or social media, please reference this page as your source.
What format is the template (DOC, PDF, PPT, etc.)?
Do you have templates for the other chapters?
Yes, we do. We are constantly developing our collection of free resources to help students complete their dissertations and theses. You can view all of our template resources here.
Can Grad Coach help me with my research topic?
Yes, we can provide coaching-based assistance to help you find and choose a high-quality topic. Get in touch to discuss our private coaching services.
Additional Resources
If you’re working on a dissertation or thesis, you’ll also want to check these out…
1-On-1 Private Coaching
Research Topic Bootcamp
The Grad Coach YouTube Channel
The Grad Coach Podcast