Performing background research may reveal that your topic or research question is too broad [large] in focus or too narrow [small] in focus. You may have found too many or too few results to meet your information needs or assignment requirements. For example, a topic like "race horses" will be too broad and return many results and potential areas for research. In contrast, a topic like "race horse cardiovascular injuries on synthetic surfaces" will be too narrow to find substantial research.
If you suspect your topic or research question is too narrow or too broad, proceed to the next sections for tips on how to fix these issues.