Ashley then goes into the processes of researching, pre-production planning, and forming a crew. She covers how to take the information you've gathered and use it to get your materials and resources ready for production. Then you'll be ready to proceed to the second course where she takes you along as she actually directs the documentary.

Topics include:
* Developing a documentary idea
* Pitching an idea
* Writing a documentary proposal
* Planning and executing the research
* Conducting research and pre-interviews
* Developing pre-production materials
* Gathering non-production assets