A search for evidence begins with what may be the most important step: asking the right question. After completing this section, you should be able to develop a relevant and direct clinical question that will guide you in your search for information. Developing the right question is one of the most critical elements of evidence-based practice. Taking the time to develop a specific and appropriate question first helps you maintain focus on the patient and the problem and allows you to clearly articulate what you know and what you seek. By limiting your search to just the information you need, you will preserve valuable resources. There are background and foreground questions. Background questions seek general knowledge and ask the “who, what, when, where and why.” They are not specific to an individual patient. Foreground questions are posed for very specific information, assist in the decision-making process, and are used to inform about clinical decisions. The PICO method (patient, intervention, comparison, outcome) is often used to form foreground questions and break down the actual problem. Searches often contain both kinds of questions, but may need to initially start with background questions.