By using smart research practices. Sound too good to be true? With a little organization, planning and assistance from the resources listed below, you can learn to master the information-gathering game quickly and easily.

Get Organized
Smart research habits begin with knowing what resources will work best for you, your client and your practice. Set aside some time to evaluate your ongoing research needs, and assess what types of materials and skills you need to uncover the information you want.

Take Stock of Resources
How do you currently meet research needs? Do you continuously sift through weekly or monthly publications? Do you depend on CD-ROM or online subscriptions to stay current with information? Whatever method you choose, it is important to make sure it meets the following criteria:

• Information delivered is accurate and timely.
• Information is easy to find and understand.
• Information can be cataloged for future use.

Today, more and more professionals are turning to the Internet to meet research needs, due to its depth, power and speed. Many traditional resources, from GAAP guides to the Wall Street Journal are just a mouse click away. However, if you are a traditionalist who has not been bit by the technology bit, that is fine too. Just make sure your research materials are organized and kept in one central location for convenient access.

Survey Clients' Needs
Talk to your clients. Understand the state of their business and ask if changes in their respective industries require you to get up to speed with new regulations and trends. Ask your clients what resources, publications and other sources of information they consult, and consider doing the same. When appropriate, accompany your client to industry events or professional meetings to better understand the competitive world they face.

Research Starting Points
There are several comprehensive, information-packed tools that serve as excellent starting points for accounting research. These resources are excellent tools to use on a daily basis-their content is updated, and users can either skim important topics or drill down for more in-depth information. If you are in need of answers, and are not sure where to start, turn to these resources first.

• CPANet is an online community and Web site for accounting professionals. It offers news, forums, research tools and a firm directory.
• The AICPA's library accepts research requests via phone, fax and email. The AICPA library is among the largest and most comprehensive in its field, offering a collection of books, journals and loose-leaf services, as well as materials in CD-ROM format. The library's collection is concentrated in the areas of accounting, auditing and taxation, and also covers personal financial planning, practice management, management consulting and information technology.

Tax Research Resources
Accessing vital tax information-current regulations, deductions and valuations-is a necessary part of conducting business for today's accounting professionals. The following resources are designed to allow you to access and understand the tax information and explanations you and your clients need.

• The U.S. Tax Codes Web site makes available the complete text of the United States Internal Revenue Code, Title 26 of the U.S. Code (26 USC).
• TaxLibrary.com offers instant, subscription-based access to primary tax materials-all regularly monitored and automatically updated every month. Tax analysts provide primary source material (IRS code, regulations, publications and rulings).
• Research Institute of America is a definitive online tax resource, offering access to tax forms, tax law updates, industry news and more.
• A monthly publication, the Journal of Taxation keeps you up-to-date on the latest tax law changes, court decisions, revenue rulings and administrative actions, and shows how they affect you and your clients. This publication and many other relevant tax resources are published by Warren, Gorham & Lamont.