Research is the first step. Browse large online stores like Amazon, Walmart, and J & R Music world and make a list of five to ten items you are interested in. If you’re shopping for a CD player, make a list of five to ten different CD players. If you’re shopping for speakers, make a list of five to ten sets of speakers that catch your eye. Also make a note of the manufacturer, model number, and price of each item as you conduct your research.

Often you can get good deals if you are willing to accept last year’s model.

Next, visit the manufacturer’s web site. If the manufacturer’s site has a support forum, visit it and search for the model number you’re researching to see if customers have reported any problems. If you want you can confirm feature set and other information while you’re at the manufactures site.

To help with your decision, make a simple chart on paper or create a spreadsheet. List the model numbers of your items across the top from left to right and the features along the side from top to bottom. Award a score from one to ten to each feature and total up the columns. The model with the highest total is your first choice.

Search for the winning product’s model number on Google to find online stores where the item is for sale. Find the best price and make your purchase. Make sure you understand shipping costs, warranty terms, and the company’s return policy before you buy.