What should a student do next after creating a research plan for a federal statute?

After creating a research plan for a federal statute, the next logical step is to find and review a treatise or secondary source discussing the statute. This approach is beneficial because treatises and secondary sources provide context, explain complex legal concepts, and offer critical analysis that can help clarify how the statute operates within the broader legal framework. They often summarize case law, highlight legislative history, and point out key issues and interpretations that are instrumental for a deeper understanding of the statute.

Additionally, while reviewing case law is important, it is often more effective to first gain an understanding of the statute's principles and application through secondary sources. This background can make case law research more meaningful by providing a foundational understanding of the legal issues at stake. Seeking help from a professor is also valuable but may not be necessary at this stage when ample resources exist to self-educate. Starting to read the statute directly without further research can lead to confusion, especially if the student lacks the context that secondary sources can provide. Therefore, consulting a treatise or secondary source is the best next step after creating the research plan.