So, basically, you need something that you can write about for several pages without getting redundant or off topic.

And, also depending on what type of essay it is, you’ll need a topic that has some “background conversation” so you can find sources to back up your claim.

Pick something you already know about and are intrested in. (duh) Brainstorm. Write a list of many ideas and then choose a few to develop. You should do some high-level research to determine if there’s enough info available and to come up with an angle — an approach or opinion on the topic that will create at least 3 areas of discussion and keep the reader interested. (How you develop the idea will come later, just remember to outline before you write. It will help you present your thoughts logically, aid transition, etc.)

Here’s a quick example off the top of my head. My thought process goes like this: brainstorming…. holidays in Spain, computer hacking, obesity and self esteem, how to train a dog….. ok, let’s develop computer hacking…..it’s interesting to nearly everyone these days, I have some previous knowledge from a class lecture on viruses and I’ve been affected a few times….I did an hour or so of research (ok, pretend) and it shows lots of big name hacking pranks and players, also legislation trying to keep up, also how hacking impacts business and individuals….hum, there are 3 discussion topics easy to fill out…my topic might be “How do law makers keep up with the global crime of hacking?” or something like that… yes, I’m typing fast and this is just a rough example. I could do better with some time, maybe. =)

Good luck

http://daphne.palomar.edu/handbook/choosingtopic.htm

http://www.bestessaytips.com/topic.php