The author offers an alternative to the mad-dash scramble model of trial preparation, with a simple message: start early with the end in mind, develop a plan, and maintain self-discipline to work the plan on a regular basis. The book is broken into segments based upon arbitrary time periods. The reader need not precisely follow the schedules suggested; they are simply guidelines to consider. Each case is different and one must prepare according to each case s dynamics. What is essential and common to all cases, however, is the necessity of thinking first, acting second and being mindful both of the big picture and the fine details."