This paper presents the study methods used for the "Opportunities and Obstacles: Implementing Stimulus-Funded School Improvement Grants in Maryland, Michigan, and Idaho" report. The purpose of this study was to describe how Title I 1003(g) School Improvement Grants awarded through the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA) in the 2010-11 school year were implemented at the state, district, and local levels in three specific states (Idaho, Maryland, and Michigan). The study also examined participants' views of the successes and challenges of implementation. (Contains 1 footnote.) [For the main report, "Opportunities and Obstacles: Implementing Stimulus-Funded School Improvement Grants in Maryland, Michigan, and Idaho," see ED532799.]