Documentation

It's important for you to document the sources of information for you family history research. How do you know Aunt Sally's birth date? Did she tell you? Or do you have a copy of her birth certificate? How do you know where Great-grandpa Harry is buried? Do you have his death certificate? An obituary? Or a photograph of his tombstone? Record the pertinent details for each and every source.

There are different styles of documentation, but generally speaking you should include enough information to assist others in finding the source you used.

• Author (individual or agency that created the record)
• Title (article, book, or record type)
• Publisher
• Date of Publication
• Page numbers
• Microfilm, microfiche, or CD number
• Internet address and date viewed

Documenting your sources will help you stay organized as you continue your search, and it'll help you evaluate conflicting information. Most importantly, documentation will give your research credibility with others.

• "Why Bother? The Value of Documentation in Family History Research" by Kory Meyerink <www.genealogy.com/19_kory.html>
• "How to Cite Sources" by John Wylie <www.genealogy.com/genealogy/19_wylie.html?Welcome=1021989670>