Pilot studies in cancer nursing research are not routinely conducted or reported, yet they have the potential of contributing information to subsequent major studies that could improve their substantive outcomes. A definition of "pilot study" is offered, and the unique contributions and limitations of pilot studies are described. Examples of the contributions and limitations are drawn from an actual pilot study, and the impact of such factors on the development of a 3-year major study also are described. Selective sharing of the outcomes of pilot work in cancer nursing research is encouraged.