When and why should you create a research plan? You should create a research plan before you select a research question because it helps you organize and cite the sources you use. You should create a research plan after you select a research question because it helps you organize and cite the sources you use. You should create a research plan after you select a research question because it helps you search for information more efficiently. You should create a research plan before you select a research question because it helps you search for information more efficiently.