A Case-Based Approach to Argumentation outlines a five-step process for engaging with case studies.  While CAAW acknowledges that this process is recursive (recursive means that you will loop back through the steps as you move forward), CAAW maintains that you can best engage with case studies in this specfic order.

1. read the scenario
2. analyze and engage in decision making (come up with thesis)
3. research the case-study issues to find support for your thesis
4. write a draft
5. discuss the scenario with peers