Organizing / Record-Keeping

Anyone who has studied their family tree for any length of time knows just how much paper and whatnot you can amass. I mean, really piles and piles of notes, photocopies, old documents, books, photographs and more. Software can help keep the actual data organized, but all this paper must be tamed, too.

Getting Organized
A quick intro to getting yourself organized, including links to several articles with organizing ideas, styles and systems.

Family Group Sheets
One of the basic organizing forms, is easy to use and keep a family group together. Links to free ones for you to use.

Pedigree Charts
Again, more links to free charts for your use. These charts keep the ancestral links together in family tree format.

Ahnentafel Charts
A compact chart to list out the ancestors of one individual in your family tree.

Creating a Genealogy Timeline
Timelines are a great visual way to put all your historical research into perspective.

Dealing with Titles
Some tips on how to record complicated names with titles and honorifics.

Have a Game Plan
Know what you are looking for, so you don't get distracted and follow every genealogical lead you find.

How to Cite Your Sources
Some examples of the proper way to record the sources of your data.

Publishing Your Family Tree
What better way to keep your research together than in a an actual printed book. Find a publisher that specializes in genealogy projects.

Tiny Tafel Reports
A compact little report you can use to help organize and keep track of the names you've uncovered in your family tree.

Why Cite Your Sources?
A personal opinion on why its important to record where you are getting your information from, especially when researching online.