Ancestral Chart
An ancestor chart records the ancestors from whom you directly descend--those for whom you intend to compile a complete and correct family unit. It shows at a glance the progress you have made towards this goal and what remains to be done.
Research Calendar
The research calendar gives an account of every record source you have searched and serves as a reminder of what you have already done and where you have found pertinent information.
Research Extract
Use the research extract sheets to summarize information which cannot be photocopied, for which there is no document in your possession, or for things such as deeds which may be time-consuming or difficult to reread quickly when you need information from the copy you have.
Correspondence Record
It is important to keep track of those with whom you have corresponded, the reasons for writing, and whether or not you have already received an answer.
Family Group Sheet
Each piece of information concerning a pedigree ancestor and his/her family is placed on a worksheet. Since the end result of your research efforts will be to compile complete, correct and connected families, the use of family group sheets from the beginning will make the compilation much easier.
Source Summary
It is helpful to be able to refer quickly to information you have found for a particular family and the sources of that information. Keep a separate source summary of information found for each family group.