Organizing Research

Suggestions For Organizing Genealogy Files. 

**Most of the following information is gleaned from
The video of her webinar is available on Legacy Family Tree Webinars
(Legacy is subscription based, although there are some viewable Webinars that are free.  However, I would recommend the annual subscription, it is so worth it!!)

 Genealogical Filing systems:
Supplies needed:
 -Container for files
 -File folders 
-1"or 2"  3-ring binder 
-Over-sized subject dividers.

A.  Basic filing system: 
1. Select colors for Surnames
a. Father's Father:  Blue                                                                  
b. Mother's Father:  Red 
c. Father's Mother:  Green 
d. Mother's Mother:  Yellow                                                                                       
2. Label each color file folder with a Surname.     
3. Sort papers & file in correct folder. Arrange by type of record, chronologically by date of record or by family groups.
4. Arranged Alpha- Subdivide Surname files. 
5. Separate docs into files by Surname & Locality.
* If Surname family lived in several locations, add 2 or + folders for each.  
 Ex: Harris:Census, Harris:Land Records, Harris:Immigration Rec.
*If a Doc contains more surnames: Duplicate page or Cross-Reference both surnames in own files.
B.  Organizing Computer Files: 
1. Organize File Structures
2. Organizing digital photos
C. Organize Your Research
1. Genealogy Supplies
2. Create a 'Research Journal' & document all research activity. 
3. Create a 'Timelines'  Folder and Use Timelines for all your Ancestors
4. Use a Genealogy Software Program
D. Organize Family Heirlooms:
1. Inventory each item on your computer by creating a folder for each category. 


E. Useful Forms:
Article Reading List
Research Checklist of Books
Family Correspondence Log
Correspondence Log
Heirloom Inventory
Research Repository Checklist - & Online Internet Sources
Research Calendar
Research Journal
Census Checklist
Research Trip Pack List
Table of Contents for File Folders

 Pedigree Forms and Identification 
5-Generation Ancestor Chart
Family Group Sheet of each Family
Biographical Outline of the Life of each ancestor
Photo-Identification Worksheet

Quick-Reference Guides:
Source Citation Documentation Cheat Sheet
Vital Records Chart


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