What is the problem I need to solve?

What is the question I want to ask?

What information do I need to solve the problem or answer the question?

With Task Definition, you figure out the reason you need the information. This is probably the most important step of all in the Big6.

For example, do you need facts, do you need opinions, or do you need pictures? Just what kind of information do you need to get to solve your information problem?

To find out what you need, do this:

Write down several questions that you would like to ask about your topic.

For example, you want to study bears, you might ask:

1. Why do they hibernate during the winter?

2. What kind of habitat do they need to live in?

3. When are bears dangerous to people?

4. How long do bears live?