Your search plan might be an informal set of notes or a list of step-by-step instructions complete with details such as keywords to search, interview questions to ask, and observation forms to fill out. No matter how informal it is, you should write it down. A written plan will help you remember the decisions you’ve made as you’ve prepared to collect your sources.

Use your plan to schedule time to search for and collect information. Next to each activity — such as searching a database or conducting an interview — identify start dates and projected completion dates. Creating a schedule will help you budget and manage your time.

Share your plan with your instructor, your supervisor, your classmates, or a librarian. Each might suggest additional search tools, research methods, shortcuts, and alternative research strategies for your project. Take notes on the feedback you receive, and, if necessary, revise your plan.