The Year Ahead – January 14

In the January/February 2024 issue of Family Tree Magazine, they have introduced The Year Ahead, 366 genealogy tips will make 2024 your best research year yet by Lisa A Alzo. Lisa mapped out a day-by-day research plan.

January 14 – Make an index of what’s in each file folder or binder and post it on their covers. Create a master index that includes all your files, too. Receive your free copy of  a Table of Contents for Files

Personally, I don’t do this, however, I can see the advantage of doing this. It’s just not the way I look at my research. My file folders are pretty self-explanatory, since they are for a married couple, everything in that folder is for that couple. I also don't have huge contents in my folder and there are copies on my computer. However, if my file folders were huge or if I was using a binder system, I would like an index at the beginning of the folder or binder.  Then, I would see at a glance what is in the folder or binder and the order.

I guess, I am ultimately lazy and the thought of creating a master index, seem daunting.  I know I would never keep up such as system. Thus, remember, this is your genealogy and you need to do what you will maintain. You do want to keep a well-organized system, something a stranger would easily follow and something you will maintain. There are some habits I saw the advantage of doing and yes it took a while to develop it into my normal procedures. You will be the best person to decide what will work best for you and your research.

Even if I do or don’t do something that these tips are suggesting, doesn’t make me or them right or wrong. These are suggestions to help all of us in our research. Each of us, will need to decide what will help us to improve our research. 

Please take a few minutes and really evaluate the pros and cons of developing one of these tips into your daily routine. 

Remember to have fun and Just Do Genealogy!