This is what is meant by research. Many and varied skills are needed for this stage in the process of academic writing.

Refer here to the Reading Strategies Workpack.

Here is a summary of the content.

• Skimming - casting your eye over a text to gain an overview.
   
• Scanning - casting your eye over a text in search of a specific piece of information.
   
• Bibliographical skills - the efficient use of a library, the Internet, reference books.
   
• Use note-taking skills.
   
• Video and audio recording.
   
• Choose childrens' books for facts.
   
• Avoid difficult texts.
   
• Never read without a pencil.
   
• Photocopy rather than copying by hand.
   
• Use only pencil for writing in books.
   
• Know when to stop researching.