I do a mix, though like other people here I always end up thinking I haven't done enough research. I look at their candidate statements first, and if they can't write or spell or if there's no statement at all that's usually a disqual. And then I do a quick run through on the smartvote site and check the SJ Mercury and the Metro (local 'alternative'). If I can't see a clear choice by then, I don't vote on the race.