I searched for this topic to make sure it wasn't on here, and I couldn't find it. I may have missed it, but I hope not.

Ok, so I search for a document file. I find someone who has it, and I try to download it, but it doesn't let me download it. It stays at 'awaiting sources.' Is there any way to know if they're blocking me because I don't have enough files, or if they just aren't online, or if they're blocking me in particular, or if I've passed their download limit? This happens too often for it to be a coincidence, and it's really annoying!

Many, many thanks to anyone who will help me fix this, or figure out what I'm doing wrong. I'll even write you a poem or a story of your choice if you want. (barring anything weird...and I can't write essays for school, I've got problems enough with my own)

You might be seeing fake files. After you click to download, do the files sit connecting for ages, then need more sources, before they eventually get stuck awaiting sources? Are there lots of sources for the files?
Fake files showing up in search results

Search again, vary your search terms a little & try the All Types search. Check the file with Bitzi before download. I'm not sure whether many documents are going to be rated on Bitzi (it's mostly video that's rated) but it's worth a try
How to use Bitzi

Otherwise, check in LW's options & make sure that your mazimum downloads aren't set at zero.

All the stuff that you listed in the first paragraph happens with those files, but it's typically only one or two sources. No, my max downloads aren't set at zero. I didn't know that could happen. You learn something every day, I guess. All types might work. I'll have to try that.
Thanks for the tips!