There are questions that need to be asked before you start any research assignment. Make a habit of clarifying important information and making a plan before you even open a browser window - it will save you a ton of time in the long run.
- How much time and money can I spend on this?
- Is there a restriction on disbursements?
- What is the result I hope to achieve?
- Is this for a memo? A factum? Pleadings?
- What stage of the process are you dealing with? A trial will require a much more in-depth result than arbitration or pleadings, for example.
- What type of information is being sought? Case law, commentary, legislation, or a combination?
- What is my prior level of knowledge in this area?
- What contacts do I have who might have insight into this problem?
WRITE IT DOWN. This is a good rule of thumb for every stage of the research process. Chances are you will have multiple assignments concurrently, or there might be long periods of time between progress on a particular file. Taking notes and making annotations when you are conducting your research will save you so much time when it comes to reviewing or drafting.
We recommend keeping a research log. We've provided a sample here, but feel free to make something personal that works for you. The important part is that you get in the habit of taking notes and writing down everything that you do.