Genealogy and Family History

How to Begin

Organizing Information

• Making Copies, Using Tools
• Computer Methods
• Manual Methods
• Preserving Artifacts
• Cite Your Sources!

Manual Methods

Organizing your "stuff" can be a chore, but it is better to do it before the piles of paper become overwhelming.

Filing systems may be simple or complex, but all serve the same purpose: to help you find that piece of paper you jotted that note on three years ago. Filing systems are also very individual, so choose one that is easy for you to use and maintain.

Some descriptions of filing systems are listed here:

• Binders, Notebooks or Folders? - Organizing Your Genealogy Files
  [http://genealogy.about.com/cs/organization/a/filing_systems.htm]
• Another Sort of A to Z: Your Genealogy Filing System
  [www.genealogy.com/75_donna.html]
• Research at Your Fingertips
  [http://genealogy.allinfoabout.com/features/organize_a.html]
• Get Organized: Manage that mountain of paper
  [http://genealogy.suite101.com/article.cfm/get_organized]