Choosing a Topic

• Picking an appropriate topic is the first step towards creating a successful Product/Artefact in the EPQ. It forms the foundation of all your subsequent work.
• Try to choose a topic that you are genuinely passionate about. This will keep you engaged throughout the process and make your research and creation process more enjoyable and fulfilling.
• Consider selecting a topic that complements your main subject areas. This demonstrates a consolidated subject understanding and could potentially assist with university or college applications.
• Your topic should be complex enough to demonstrate your ability to undertake extensive research and use it to inform your creative process. However, it should not be so broad that you cannot explore it thoroughly.
• Make sure your chosen topic delivers a clear practical outcome. Your project aim should be to create a tangible product or artefact to enhance your learning and display evidence of your research.

Analyzing the Topic

• After selecting your topic, review it critically. Identify its key aspects, and consider any potential challenges you might face during the process.
• Investigate whether your topic has been covered extensively elsewhere. Originality and enthusiasm about your chosen subject can help make your artefact stand out.
• Develop an approach for breaking down your topic into manageable chunks. This will assist you in planning, researching, and creating your artefact, and can help improve the overall coherency of your project.
• Evaluate the feasibility of your topic. Consider the resources, time, and skills required to create your artefact and whether these are realistically accessible. Possible limitations could include financial cost, availability of materials, or necessary specialised skills.

Topic Approval and Refinement

• Once you have a well-thought topic in mind, discuss it with your project supervisor. They can provide valuable feedback and potentially approve your topic.
• Be open to refining your topic based on the feedback received. Constructive criticism can help improve the relevancy, coherence, and depth of your project.
• Keep in mind that your topic may evolve over time. As you dive deeper into your research and creation process, new ideas and directions might emerge, and you should be flexible enough to accommodate them.
• Remember to consistently document your process in your project logbook or similar, so as to keep track of changes and decisions related to your topic and project progression.