What is Frank's pattern of preparing himself for a new role?

Frank always does research before starting a new role. In the past, he presents himself as a student writer and interviews people, such as the Pan Am captain, to get up-to-date information. He also spends a lot of time in libraries. When he is a doctor, he spends much of time in the hospital's library. As a professor, he audits courses taught by another professor to "refresh" himself.