Although research is good, it is worthless without knowledge. You need to start with a basic knowledge. If you are talking about card tricks, start with the five book Card College Series. From there, get more books such as ones by Vernon, Jennings, Marlo and then more books like those from John Bannon, John Gustaferro and Tom Stone. Read Genii, especially Roberto Giobbi's columns on plots and techniques.
Also, a great research tool is here:
http://www.conjuringarchive.com