What's the best topic to write on?

All topics are not equal. On the day of the examination, your chances of writing a great essay would vary from topic to topic based on a number of factors. 

Here’s how to make the right decision. First: look at the wording. Some of the topic options are phrases (e.g. ‘Global warming’); others are questions (e.g. ‘Can meaning be fixed?’) or claims (e.g. ‘Dialogue is the best course to combat terrorism’). In general, prefer topic claims over questions, and questions over topic phrases. 

Here's why. 

Topic phrases are open-ended and would need a heck of spadework. Questions are better in that they imply a range of specific topic areas you are expected to discuss. However, if you choose a topic question, you must be able to discuss it from at least two angles. 

Topic claims are the best. Your stance on the subject is pre-decided on your behalf. You may already be loaded with ideas and evidence. All you would need is an essay plan.    

The second factor to consider in choosing the right topic is the quality of the thesis on which you expect to peg your essay. If you fear a certain topic would take you down a tunnel of a beat-up position that nine people out of 10 already agree to or on the other hand it would be a hot potato (i.e. the topic would push you into taking a highly controversial position), scratch that option. 

The third and perhaps the most important consideration should be the resources or the raw material at hand. Which of the given topics brings to mind lots of examples, quotations, statistics, facts or/and stories? 

And yes, don't forget to compare the relative appeal of the topics. Avoid proverbs (e.g. ‘All work and no play make Jack a dull boy’), predictably popular topics (e.g. 'The post-covid-19 economy’) and survey-type discussion topics (‘Energy crisis in Pakistan: causes and consequences’).

If all this sounds too complicated, rely on the this flow chart to make the right decision.