I never used them even at the beginning because there was new stuff coming on line all the time. My knowledge increased over time. Who or how I looked for someone 10 years ago is not how I look today. AND the data base somewhere 10 years ago might not have had "everything" it has now. Nope. Never used them. Never will. I would rather visit the same place again. Maybe I missed something but I'm older and smarter now and I probably would spot information I need even if it's not what I went there looking for.
Thanks Toni. I can so relate to everything you just said. I love revisiting the records I looked at because I tend to pick up new clues and make new connections.
When I started doing my genealogy, I was blessed that it was always with a family tree software program. At first, I was definitely one of those "chase the shaky leaf" kind of researcher. But, as I continued in climbing my tree, I also started learning more about the proper way to do it. My first "new tip" I incorporated was Crista Cowan's "transcribe every record". My software had a spot for me to do this, so that was where my transcription went. Happily I climbed along, being more "thorough" in my research, but I continued seeking to learn the correct way to do it. That is when I stumbled onto the fact that we "need" to do research logs & research notes for every ancestor, every time we sat down to research. Okay, time to add this to my repertoire of things to do. By this point, I had figured out that my tree had some mighty big errors. I planned to go over everything to make sure it was all correct and sourced accurately. Plus, who knew if there were additional sources now available. So I start out on my "go-over" and this time I planned to do the research log/notes as I went along. Yeah. That did not go over well. I made it to my grandparents and lost my fire. I was so bogged down in writing down all this information in multiple different locations, that I lost ALL of my enthusiasm for researching my tree. This wasn't good, as I am the only one in my family (including the children of all of my parents first cousins) who is even remotely interested in it. After a couple of years of barely giving it a glance, I am once again ready to start working on my tree again. Due to consistent issues with my former family tree software, I am making the jump to RM and am excited to put all the tools it has to work in being my research log & notes. Thank you for doing this video! Even 3 years after posting date, it is still relevant and helpful! I for one can't wait to get back to climbing my family tree doing my "research log & notes" my way!!
I have moved on from laptops, I use an iPad Pro with Notability, I have an “if/then”flow chart that I developed. It’s a programming statement that uses James Tanners 12 rules and leads me thru all search engines and databases. It includes a 5-7 miles radius of the verified last known place of occupation or family event. I don’t have to remember everything about what to search and where. I just follow my if/then flow chart on every person until I get the sources I need and then move to the next person I want to search. If I haven’t found the information I want on that person I just flag where I left off, when I come back to it I know where to start. Simple, I have my tree in all of the search engines and search all hints and leads.
It's always great to hear about other options. I actually use Windows Notepad. Then I copy & paste to my Legacy Family Tree notes. I realize this creates the situation you are saying Not to do. I started doing this 18 years ago when I was undecided about my methodology. Now, I still do it so I can search these Research Journals that I have eventually merged into 'chapters by the year' they were created. TY Devon.
I totally agree, and I think all your research, whether you find anything or not, should be added directly to your genealogy software sources and repositories, skipping the research log step completely.
Thank you for saying this! I’ve been guiltily avoiding research logs but I’ll stop feeling guilty. Question: Why haven’t the software vendors built the research log process into the data recording process? It makes no sense to have them separate. All research and analysis should be in one place.
Yes. Please stop feeling guilty. While some educators still swear by them, many more have let them go the way of the dinosaur. Analysis can't always be done through a database. Thus Clue Webs and other visual clusters have to be used. However, many software programs have your sources in one spot with places to incorporate notes and such. ruclips.net/video/mV0Oe9BQNY0/видео.html Others have the ability to create To Do Lists. And most have the ability to create reports. The programs can do a lot, but not everything. However, software has eliminated my need for research logs. Which is really a time saving tip.
agree, if the source is cited by the program, great! If I upload my own content, I place the source info in the comments area, or how far I searched that source if nothing was found.
I am an avoider. I have watched videos and read blogs and gone to workshops where genealogists stress how important it is to keep a research log, but it has seemed like a lot of extra work to me. I also keep my info in my online tree on Ancestry and sync it with my desktop Family Tree Maker. I could certainly be more organized but I don't want to spend a lot of time duplicating information that I have already entered once. I agree with you.
I've started using them and I have started appreciating the value of having a record of which sources produced no results when I am at a library going through books. I like have my sources well documented. That said, they are tedious.
Having a record of what you searched is valuable. You can do that in a genealogy software program, which saves so much time and keeps everything in one place.
Thank you for saying this. When I started doing genealogy back in the 1980s. It was definitely necessary to have a research log. These days not so much.
So true. RootsMagic now has a tasks feature that links to a Research Log ruclips.net/video/NmTIlvMEmzQ/видео.html The log needs one final tweak and it'll be a perfect solution. Check out tasks ruclips.net/video/NmTIlvMEmzQ/видео.html
I must agree with you Devon. Through the years I have tried to create a research log because it was the thing to do. Never had it when I needed it. I would forget to update, etc. Do not like them.
I don't think it matters which technology we use to capture the information from the research we've done. As long as we can use the info in a research plan or in a report to a client. I think you've made a good point. I also use RootsMagic and I'm going to try your way of making a research report.
Deb, when it comes to writing a research report, I definitely think the log is wasted time that we're charging clients for. I can organize all of the content I would give to a client with RootsMagic and spend more time researching or writing rather than moving data around. Good luck with your professional research.
I agree! I'm trying to embed most of my information in data and comments in Ancestry, including thoughts about what else needs to be done. I'm sure that no one in my immediate family will take over my research when I'm gone (I'm 66), so I want it where SOMEONE can find it.
Susan... I hear ya. I really do. So yes, this makes sense to leave notes in your tree. I came across someone's research log that they added as a PDF to their family tree. Sadly, it really didn't help me understand the person's thought process any more than the sources and notes left in the tree.
I've mainly focused on negative logging - if I'm looking for the needle in the haystack, identifying which records I looked at that didn't match. It's helped when (gasp) people lied about their age or said they were from a given city with 30 different churches.
I can understand that perspective. People often did lie about their age. I've seen a woman never age in 30 years but everyone else in her household did.
@@FamilyHistoryFanatics both great grandmother and great grandfather took the opportunity of their marriage to make themselves 6-7 years younger. Cousins and I beat our heads against a brick wall for a decade before getting enough evidence.
I don't use a research log either. I now feel totally justified :) However, I am terrible at keeping up with negative search results. I also use RootsMagic. Where do you put the negative search results into RootsMagic? Do you just put them in the notes field for the person?
Great question. I make a source for an event, as I would if I had a positive search. Then I add an annotation (or note) that says no information found (or something like that).
I'm an avoider. I've tried keeping logs & it just doesn't work for me. I keep research journals. I document what I'm researching, where, who, etc. Then I can put that info into my reports. It helps me keep track of what I have & have not researched. And if I step away from my research, I can review my notes & continue from there. I try to add/create as many sources I can on Ancestry; where I keep majority of my work. But yeah I hate using the logs.
I know that some people like to record where they looked so they don't repeat searches, BUT some places we search add new info/update records, so you might have to search there again. And you might have learned something new in between and realize you do have to go back and do a new search of a place you've been before... I can't say I detest, I'm just not that good on that end of my researching to use them--even to use them the way YOU've shown here, which would be *something* better than what I'm doing..which is nothing even close to this. Sad face for me.
I struggle with this. I like to make a list of ToDos on paper. I document everything I find on Ancestry and then sync frequently with Family Tree Maker. I was keeping a log with WORD but just recently am experimenting with Trello. Mostly this is for keeping track of snail mail/email contacts and replies.
The struggle is real, isn't it? I'm so scatter-brained in my non-genealogy world that I loose things far to easily. I'm a one program to rule them all kind of gal. Perhaps you can try to contain everything in one spot? Not sure if that'll help you but it definitely helps me.
Am I to understand that you put the majority of your research results and quotes in an offline program? What if all your research in your software programm can not be read by your family because they don't have that program (and don't want to buy it) or the program is not compatible and updated technically anymore some day? I don't want to put everything online.
I put my notes in multiple places so my family and extended relatives can access them. I use online family trees, genealogy software, and research reports when warranted. I'm also a big advocate of writing family histories that people want to read (not just bound group sheets and pedigree charts). I can then donate those items to libraries and archives around the world and get them into card catalogs for people to access. You don't have to put everythin gonline, but having items online help in case flood, fire, and other natural disasters happen. And it makes it accessible to other researchers.
How do you track research questions that become a brick wall for a while? Or what sort of tickler do you have or alert system to remind you to return to look at your brick wall? I appreciated your anecdote about working for at DFW, tracking vehicles. I would love to create my own Microsoft Access database to track my research than keep paper records and your story reminded me of when I worked in corporate America and used databases like that. So simple. I have yet to find a family history software that I find simple.
I use To-Do lists and Tasks on RootsMagic. I've waited to respond until I made that video. It ruclips.net/video/NmTIlvMEmzQ/видео.html. (It goes live Jan 31st). I'll be doing follow-up training on how to do the entire research process with RootsMagic. (Goes live in February for channel members).
When visiting archives, I try to make best use of my time by having a to-do list of things I want to search and why. That list gets annotated with results, though the relevant information, with the citations, goes straight into the tree held on the laptop. I tend to record the likes of microfilm numbers in there. The list can then be reused for the next visit to that archive, and I know what I've already seen. Reasoning, especially for negative results, get recorded with the rest of the details about a person, so I have comments like "This is not the Joseph baptised in 1784; he died in 1798." So I have a combination approach, which I think works well.
I love it! I love To Do lists and I just learned that RootsMagic 8 can offer a TO-Do List to Research Log approach that might remove my dislike of the logs in the future.
I have not started a Research Log as of yet....so I am going to give your suggestions a try👍because to me that makes more sense to do it in software program. 🧬✍👩💻📚📝🤞
Typically avoid. However when I have a tough nut to crack, I'll put together a spreadsheet for correlating data points to help me figure where the holes are and help me focus on where to search. I typically put my successes in notes online or in my software. I do have to say, however, that I have had my bacon saved by recording all my correspondence (successful or not) from decades ago. (been trying to solve a case off and on for 3.5 decades. This is stuff that came up in interviews that didn't make sense then but does now.
Spreadsheets are awesome for processing data. I have a video coming out in a few weeks about data mining that utilizes spreadsheets. Keeping track of correspondence and interviews are also very important. I could still work it into a database, but if you find logs helpful, then have at it.
Avoid. I use OneNote (have it with me everywhere) to write my question, cut & paste any background, list possible sources, track results, etc. Then cut & paste into software. OneNote allows me to see all the research to do quickly without running reports out of the software. Works for me.
Sorry for the delay. I thought I had this available but apparently not. Now it is available on our resource page on our website. It is there with many other resources. www.familyhistoryfanatics.com/resources
Avoid. Its redundant. Wastes time you could be researching. Researching is a spiral, not a straight line..we always circle back to information. And websites constantly upload more data, they add on to existing data. So far at 49 I feel like I can float most of this data in my head..maybe I'm wrong but after awhile its just stuck in there.
I can relate to you. I have so much in my mind. What isn't there is in my database or online tree and readily available. I may never make professional genealogists happy with my dislike or research logs. However, I'm not against being organized. I use research plans and databases to track all of the log content.
Which Genealogy Software Program would others recommend? My immediate thought is to use Root Magic because it is the one I recall my dad using when he did his work, however I would prefer one that I was able to use on my laptop and my mobile, if that is something that exists. TIA
Great question. RootsMagic does work on laptops, which is what I use. They also have a RootsMagic To Go feature. I have typically considered this a quick tree when I'm out and about rather than a full research tree. However, that's an option. I also use FamilySearch which has a mobile app as well. Check out my video on that ruclips.net/video/lC_s_9gouAc/видео.html
Hello Devon, I'm a channel subscriber, question ? I was skimming thru videos and came across one that had a list of 10 research questions that you should have for every individual and I can't find that video again. I have ADHD so my genealogy goes in fits 3-6 months then I stop for a couple of months, then restart. "Everytime I restart I tried to get better by learning more about the process. It's been a shotgun effective since the 80's when I started. So can you remember your video that listed the 10 question?
I don't know what is it and definetely need something to keep track of my research. I am really messy with my research and never know which years, places or documents I've already search. So, I need some organization for not to repeat all my work over and over.
I HEAR ya, loud and clear. That's why I'm in 😍 with genealogy software and online trees (like Ancestry and FamilySearch). I can keep track of all of my research years, documents, etc. I can leave notes on why I concluded a record supports my family. I can leave notes of further resources to check in a To Do list on either platform. I hope you'll investigate these resources.
@@FamilyHistoryFanatics That's the next thing I'm going to do: put all my stuff online. I'm kind of shy and i'm still thinking of how to do it. I have my tree in pieces on My Heritage Tree Builder on my computer. But it's too big to put it online with a free account. And I'm still trying to understand FS: I want to do it right, without creating duplicates and without messing others' trees. Your vids are super helpful for understand a lot of this big, big world of genealogy.
Really enjoyed the video content. I'm fairly new to Geneaology and it's research and like most things I do, I want to do it right. Having read alot of articles, books, etc. I had started to feel guilty that I wasn't creating Research logs, until I stublem accross your video. I find what you say about research logs to be in general totally logical and sensible. I don't particilarily see an need for them in this day and age. I do however need something to stop me duplicating work. I use Family Tree Maker 2019 as my primary software and after entering all the details in the software and creating poper citations etc. I don't really want to go to another piece of software or even worse a piece of paper and record all the information again. I don't see the need for it. I do however really need to do something about how I organise myself and stop duplicating work. Have you created any content with regards Family Tree Maker and specifically how to use it's different types of notes to create a one stop shop for resaech note, research logs etc?
Steve. I haven't done as much with Family Tree Maker as I probably should. I'll put your request for reducing duplicate work using the tools in Family Tree Maker. One way I avoid doing duplicate work is research plans, which I discussed here: ruclips.net/video/9MVfPrJLEPo/видео.html Or creating tasks in RootsMagic ruclips.net/video/NmTIlvMEmzQ/видео.html (Granted that's RM, but you'll find that RM and FTM have a lot of similarities. So, give this a watch and see what you can do.) I have made videos about keeping notes across different platforms. ruclips.net/video/mV0Oe9BQNY0/видео.html So, while I don't have something specific for Family Tree Maker right now, these videos have some tips that can help you until I am able to make such videos.
Thanks. Glad to know I'm not alone. However, RootsMagic is making it easier to make research logs. The first step is using tasks. ruclips.net/video/NmTIlvMEmzQ/видео.html If research logs can be generated from my regular work flow without adding extra steps, I will not complain.
You can create a research log in Family Tree maker (See this post ftmuser.blogspot.com/2020/01/research-log.html). You can also add notes and link sources to events on that platform as well. The Family Tree Maker User blog might be a great resource for you. My problem with creating videos for this platform is how small the font size is and how cluttered the screen is. If I can resolve those issues, i'll make some videos with this program.
@@FamilyHistoryFanatics there is a live RUclips video I saw scheduled for a few days from now about research logs from genealogy software showcase. I plan on checking that out
Although I think research logs are beneficial, I do not use them because they are too time intensive if they are done right. However, there have been times when I regretted not noting a source during an earlier stage of research.
Gary. Thanks for your honest feedback. Folks think I don't mean to keep track of where I searched. I do advise that, but put it in a genealogy program or the online trees that we're creating in the notes field. Or folks can have this information in research reports. It reduces the time spent 'managing' research while still maintaining quality outcomes.
There are many professional genealogists who swear by them and others who have simplified their research plan. Personally, between a research plan (ruclips.net/video/9MVfPrJLEPo/видео.html) and genealogy software, I find the logs not helpful. However, my voice is often quashed in certain circles. Glad you found this video.
Awesome. I am still playing around with Family Tree Maker to see if it would create research reports for clients as easily as RootsMagic does. I'll keep you posted and I'd love to hear your thoughts as well.
Family History Fanatics I’m still unsure as I’m a newbie and still learning I do have roots magic free version, but am thinking of upgrading but I need to play around with it more and watch more of your helpful videos Thank you for all your wonderful advice
For more tips on becoming a better genealogist, check out this playlist. ruclips.net/p/PLcVx-GSCjcdma7HnkMOEt3QiJgX8W-1BG
I never used them even at the beginning because there was new stuff coming on line all the time. My knowledge increased over time. Who or how I looked for someone 10 years ago is not how I look today. AND the data base somewhere 10 years ago might not have had "everything" it has now. Nope. Never used them. Never will. I would rather visit the same place again. Maybe I missed something but I'm older and smarter now and I probably would spot information I need even if it's not what I went there looking for.
Thanks Toni. I can so relate to everything you just said. I love revisiting the records I looked at because I tend to pick up new clues and make new connections.
When I started doing my genealogy, I was blessed that it was always with a family tree software program. At first, I was definitely one of those "chase the shaky leaf" kind of researcher. But, as I continued in climbing my tree, I also started learning more about the proper way to do it. My first "new tip" I incorporated was Crista Cowan's "transcribe every record". My software had a spot for me to do this, so that was where my transcription went. Happily I climbed along, being more "thorough" in my research, but I continued seeking to learn the correct way to do it. That is when I stumbled onto the fact that we "need" to do research logs & research notes for every ancestor, every time we sat down to research. Okay, time to add this to my repertoire of things to do. By this point, I had figured out that my tree had some mighty big errors. I planned to go over everything to make sure it was all correct and sourced accurately. Plus, who knew if there were additional sources now available. So I start out on my "go-over" and this time I planned to do the research log/notes as I went along. Yeah. That did not go over well. I made it to my grandparents and lost my fire. I was so bogged down in writing down all this information in multiple different locations, that I lost ALL of my enthusiasm for researching my tree. This wasn't good, as I am the only one in my family (including the children of all of my parents first cousins) who is even remotely interested in it. After a couple of years of barely giving it a glance, I am once again ready to start working on my tree again. Due to consistent issues with my former family tree software, I am making the jump to RM and am excited to put all the tools it has to work in being my research log & notes. Thank you for doing this video! Even 3 years after posting date, it is still relevant and helpful! I for one can't wait to get back to climbing my family tree doing my "research log & notes" my way!!
I have moved on from laptops, I use an iPad Pro with Notability, I have an “if/then”flow chart that I developed. It’s a programming statement that uses James Tanners 12 rules and leads me thru all search engines and databases. It includes a 5-7 miles radius of the verified last known place of occupation or family event. I don’t have to remember everything about what to search and where. I just follow my if/then flow chart on every person until I get the sources I need and then move to the next person I want to search. If I haven’t found the information I want on that person I just flag where I left off, when I come back to it I know where to start. Simple, I have my tree in all of the search engines and search all hints and leads.
I like the idea of an If/Then Flow chart. That's super cool. That's something I will definitely need to explore further.
Be great to see the flow chart and how it works.
Have you made a RUclips of your process. It sounds impressive.
I'm worndering if this video is the 12 Rules. I'm not sure about the flow chart ruclips.net/video/aSwzD902OUE/видео.html
It's always great to hear about other options. I actually use Windows Notepad. Then I copy & paste to my Legacy Family Tree notes. I realize this creates the situation you are saying Not to do. I started doing this 18 years ago when I was undecided about my methodology. Now, I still do it so I can search these Research Journals that I have eventually merged into 'chapters by the year' they were created. TY Devon.
My pleasure. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment. I love to see the different tools people are using.
I totally agree, and I think all your research, whether you find anything or not, should be added directly to your genealogy software sources and repositories, skipping the research log step completely.
Yep. Skipping the log step and just using software is my MO.
Thank you for saying this! I’ve been guiltily avoiding research logs but I’ll stop feeling guilty. Question: Why haven’t the software vendors built the research log process into the data recording process? It makes no sense to have them separate. All research and analysis should be in one place.
Yes. Please stop feeling guilty. While some educators still swear by them, many more have let them go the way of the dinosaur.
Analysis can't always be done through a database. Thus Clue Webs and other visual clusters have to be used.
However, many software programs have your sources in one spot with places to incorporate notes and such. ruclips.net/video/mV0Oe9BQNY0/видео.html
Others have the ability to create To Do Lists. And most have the ability to create reports. The programs can do a lot, but not everything. However, software has eliminated my need for research logs. Which is really a time saving tip.
agree, if the source is cited by the program, great! If I upload my own content, I place the source info in the comments area, or how far I searched that source if nothing was found.
I am an avoider. I have watched videos and read blogs and gone to workshops where genealogists stress how important it is to keep a research log, but it has seemed like a lot of extra work to me. I also keep my info in my online tree on Ancestry and sync it with my desktop Family Tree Maker. I could certainly be more organized but I don't want to spend a lot of time duplicating information that I have already entered once. I agree with you.
Thanks, Patricia. I could hug you. I don't like spending unnecessary time when I can spend more time researching or writing.
I've started using them and I have started appreciating the value of having a record of which sources produced no results when I am at a library going through books. I like have my sources well documented. That said, they are tedious.
Having a record of what you searched is valuable. You can do that in a genealogy software program, which saves so much time and keeps everything in one place.
Thank you for saying this. When I started doing genealogy back in the 1980s. It was definitely necessary to have a research log. These days not so much.
So true. RootsMagic now has a tasks feature that links to a Research Log ruclips.net/video/NmTIlvMEmzQ/видео.html The log needs one final tweak and it'll be a perfect solution. Check out tasks ruclips.net/video/NmTIlvMEmzQ/видео.html
I must agree with you Devon. Through the years I have tried to create a research log because it was the thing to do. Never had it when I needed it. I would forget to update, etc. Do not like them.
Thanks, Sandy. I think the never had it when I needed it supports my theory that they just get lost if not contained in one data management system.
I don't think it matters which technology we use to capture the information from the research we've done. As long as we can use the info in a research plan or in a report to a client. I think you've made a good point. I also use RootsMagic and I'm going to try your way of making a research report.
Deb, when it comes to writing a research report, I definitely think the log is wasted time that we're charging clients for. I can organize all of the content I would give to a client with RootsMagic and spend more time researching or writing rather than moving data around. Good luck with your professional research.
I agree! I'm trying to embed most of my information in data and comments in Ancestry, including thoughts about what else needs to be done. I'm sure that no one in my immediate family will take over my research when I'm gone (I'm 66), so I want it where SOMEONE can find it.
Susan... I hear ya. I really do. So yes, this makes sense to leave notes in your tree. I came across someone's research log that they added as a PDF to their family tree. Sadly, it really didn't help me understand the person's thought process any more than the sources and notes left in the tree.
I've mainly focused on negative logging - if I'm looking for the needle in the haystack, identifying which records I looked at that didn't match. It's helped when (gasp) people lied about their age or said they were from a given city with 30 different churches.
I can understand that perspective. People often did lie about their age. I've seen a woman never age in 30 years but everyone else in her household did.
@@FamilyHistoryFanatics both great grandmother and great grandfather took the opportunity of their marriage to make themselves 6-7 years younger. Cousins and I beat our heads against a brick wall for a decade before getting enough evidence.
I don't use a research log either. I now feel totally justified :) However, I am terrible at keeping up with negative search results. I also use RootsMagic. Where do you put the negative search results into RootsMagic? Do you just put them in the notes field for the person?
Great question. I make a source for an event, as I would if I had a positive search. Then I add an annotation (or note) that says no information found (or something like that).
I'm an avoider. I've tried keeping logs & it just doesn't work for me. I keep research journals. I document what I'm researching, where, who, etc. Then I can put that info into my reports. It helps me keep track of what I have & have not researched. And if I step away from my research, I can review my notes & continue from there. I try to add/create as many sources I can on Ancestry; where I keep majority of my work. But yeah I hate using the logs.
Man. So glad I am not alone. I like the idea of a research journal. I guess a software program is my journal. But I can see the journal concept.
I know that some people like to record where they looked so they don't repeat searches, BUT some places we search add new info/update records, so you might have to search there again. And you might have learned something new in between and realize you do have to go back and do a new search of a place you've been before... I can't say I detest, I'm just not that good on that end of my researching to use them--even to use them the way YOU've shown here, which would be *something* better than what I'm doing..which is nothing even close to this. Sad face for me.
Keeping track of searches and sources is painstaking even at my simplified method. Andy's a fan of 'add a link to an online source and move on."
I struggle with this. I like to make a list of ToDos on paper. I document everything I find on Ancestry and then sync frequently with Family Tree Maker. I was keeping a log with WORD but just recently am experimenting with Trello. Mostly this is for keeping track of snail mail/email contacts and replies.
The struggle is real, isn't it? I'm so scatter-brained in my non-genealogy world that I loose things far to easily. I'm a one program to rule them all kind of gal. Perhaps you can try to contain everything in one spot? Not sure if that'll help you but it definitely helps me.
Am I to understand that you put the majority of your research results and quotes in an offline program? What if all your research in your software programm can not be read by your family because they don't have that program (and don't want to buy it) or the program is not compatible and updated technically anymore some day? I don't want to put everything online.
I put my notes in multiple places so my family and extended relatives can access them. I use online family trees, genealogy software, and research reports when warranted. I'm also a big advocate of writing family histories that people want to read (not just bound group sheets and pedigree charts). I can then donate those items to libraries and archives around the world and get them into card catalogs for people to access. You don't have to put everythin gonline, but having items online help in case flood, fire, and other natural disasters happen. And it makes it accessible to other researchers.
How do you track research questions that become a brick wall for a while? Or what sort of tickler do you have or alert system to remind you to return to look at your brick wall? I appreciated your anecdote about working for at DFW, tracking vehicles. I would love to create my own Microsoft Access database to track my research than keep paper records and your story reminded me of when I worked in corporate America and used databases like that. So simple. I have yet to find a family history software that I find simple.
I use To-Do lists and Tasks on RootsMagic. I've waited to respond until I made that video. It ruclips.net/video/NmTIlvMEmzQ/видео.html. (It goes live Jan 31st). I'll be doing follow-up training on how to do the entire research process with RootsMagic. (Goes live in February for channel members).
When visiting archives, I try to make best use of my time by having a to-do list of things I want to search and why. That list gets annotated with results, though the relevant information, with the citations, goes straight into the tree held on the laptop. I tend to record the likes of microfilm numbers in there. The list can then be reused for the next visit to that archive, and I know what I've already seen. Reasoning, especially for negative results, get recorded with the rest of the details about a person, so I have comments like "This is not the Joseph baptised in 1784; he died in 1798." So I have a combination approach, which I think works well.
I love it! I love To Do lists and I just learned that RootsMagic 8 can offer a TO-Do List to Research Log approach that might remove my dislike of the logs in the future.
I have not started a Research Log as of yet....so I am going to give your suggestions a try👍because to me that makes more sense to do it in software program. 🧬✍👩💻📚📝🤞
Sounds like a plan.
Typically avoid. However when I have a tough nut to crack, I'll put together a spreadsheet for correlating data points to help me figure where the holes are and help me focus on where to search. I typically put my successes in notes online or in my software. I do have to say, however, that I have had my bacon saved by recording all my correspondence (successful or not) from decades ago. (been trying to solve a case off and on for 3.5 decades. This is stuff that came up in interviews that didn't make sense then but does now.
Spreadsheets are awesome for processing data. I have a video coming out in a few weeks about data mining that utilizes spreadsheets.
Keeping track of correspondence and interviews are also very important. I could still work it into a database, but if you find logs helpful, then have at it.
Where can we get the Research Question Cheat Sheet that you mentioned at 6:09?
Send me an email using this contact form and I'll send it your way. www.familyhistoryfanatics.com/contact
Avoid. I use OneNote (have it with me everywhere) to write my question, cut & paste any background, list possible sources, track results, etc. Then cut & paste into software. OneNote allows me to see all the research to do quickly without running reports out of the software. Works for me.
Ease of accessibility is key. That sounds like a system that benefits your research style. Kudos.
Is it possible to buy or download your cheatsheet for where to find records?
Sorry for the delay. I thought I had this available but apparently not. Now it is available on our resource page on our website. It is there with many other resources. www.familyhistoryfanatics.com/resources
Avoid. Its redundant. Wastes time you could be researching. Researching is a spiral, not a straight line..we always circle back to information. And websites constantly upload more data, they add on to existing data. So far at 49 I feel like I can float most of this data in my head..maybe I'm wrong but after awhile its just stuck in there.
I can relate to you. I have so much in my mind. What isn't there is in my database or online tree and readily available. I may never make professional genealogists happy with my dislike or research logs. However, I'm not against being organized. I use research plans and databases to track all of the log content.
Which Genealogy Software Program would others recommend? My immediate thought is to use Root Magic because it is the one I recall my dad using when he did his work, however I would prefer one that I was able to use on my laptop and my mobile, if that is something that exists. TIA
Great question. RootsMagic does work on laptops, which is what I use. They also have a RootsMagic To Go feature. I have typically considered this a quick tree when I'm out and about rather than a full research tree. However, that's an option.
I also use FamilySearch which has a mobile app as well. Check out my video on that ruclips.net/video/lC_s_9gouAc/видео.html
Research logs...ERRRRGGGGG!!! I'm so glad that my Legacy has been good at keeping track this stuff for me.
Yep. I love when genealogy programs build logs for us.
Hello Devon, I'm a channel subscriber, question ? I was skimming thru videos and came across one that had a list of 10 research questions that you should have for every individual and I can't find that video again. I have ADHD so my genealogy goes in fits 3-6 months then I stop for a couple of months, then restart. "Everytime I restart I tried to get better by learning more about the process. It's been a shotgun effective since the 80's when I started. So can you remember your video that listed the 10 question?
Ray... I hope you found the video you were looking for.
No I haven't had time thanks for asking
I don't know what is it and definetely need something to keep track of my research. I am really messy with my research and never know which years, places or documents I've already search. So, I need some organization for not to repeat all my work over and over.
I HEAR ya, loud and clear. That's why I'm in 😍 with genealogy software and online trees (like Ancestry and FamilySearch). I can keep track of all of my research years, documents, etc. I can leave notes on why I concluded a record supports my family. I can leave notes of further resources to check in a To Do list on either platform. I hope you'll investigate these resources.
@@FamilyHistoryFanatics That's the next thing I'm going to do: put all my stuff online. I'm kind of shy and i'm still thinking of how to do it. I have my tree in pieces on My Heritage Tree Builder on my computer. But it's too big to put it online with a free account. And I'm still trying to understand FS: I want to do it right, without creating duplicates and without messing others' trees.
Your vids are super helpful for understand a lot of this big, big world of genealogy.
Really enjoyed the video content. I'm fairly new to Geneaology and it's research and like most things I do, I want to do it right. Having read alot of articles, books, etc. I had started to feel guilty that I wasn't creating Research logs, until I stublem accross your video. I find what you say about research logs to be in general totally logical and sensible. I don't particilarily see an need for them in this day and age. I do however need something to stop me duplicating work. I use Family Tree Maker 2019 as my primary software and after entering all the details in the software and creating poper citations etc. I don't really want to go to another piece of software or even worse a piece of paper and record all the information again. I don't see the need for it.
I do however really need to do something about how I organise myself and stop duplicating work. Have you created any content with regards Family Tree Maker and specifically how to use it's different types of notes to create a one stop shop for resaech note, research logs etc?
Steve. I haven't done as much with Family Tree Maker as I probably should. I'll put your request for reducing duplicate work using the tools in Family Tree Maker.
One way I avoid doing duplicate work is research plans, which I discussed here: ruclips.net/video/9MVfPrJLEPo/видео.html
Or creating tasks in RootsMagic ruclips.net/video/NmTIlvMEmzQ/видео.html (Granted that's RM, but you'll find that RM and FTM have a lot of similarities. So, give this a watch and see what you can do.)
I have made videos about keeping notes across different platforms. ruclips.net/video/mV0Oe9BQNY0/видео.html
So, while I don't have something specific for Family Tree Maker right now, these videos have some tips that can help you until I am able to make such videos.
Thank you! I agree 100%
Thanks. Glad to know I'm not alone. However, RootsMagic is making it easier to make research logs. The first step is using tasks. ruclips.net/video/NmTIlvMEmzQ/видео.html
If research logs can be generated from my regular work flow without adding extra steps, I will not complain.
Is there a way to do this in Family tree maker? That’s the software I have decided to purchase.
You can create a research log in Family Tree maker (See this post ftmuser.blogspot.com/2020/01/research-log.html). You can also add notes and link sources to events on that platform as well. The Family Tree Maker User blog might be a great resource for you. My problem with creating videos for this platform is how small the font size is and how cluttered the screen is. If I can resolve those issues, i'll make some videos with this program.
@@FamilyHistoryFanatics there is a live RUclips video I saw scheduled for a few days from now about research logs from genealogy software showcase. I plan on checking that out
Although I think research logs are beneficial, I do not use them because they are too time intensive if they are done right. However, there have been times when I regretted not noting a source during an earlier stage of research.
Gary. Thanks for your honest feedback. Folks think I don't mean to keep track of where I searched. I do advise that, but put it in a genealogy program or the online trees that we're creating in the notes field. Or folks can have this information in research reports. It reduces the time spent 'managing' research while still maintaining quality outcomes.
I would forget to update, spend to much to try to do them
I can SO relate!
Avoid! Instead, I keep detailed notes on everything I look up into a project specific notebook. It gives me more latitude, and more space.
There's a misconception that I don't encourage people to 'log' their research. Yet, you've shared another way to keep track of notes that works. Amen!
Detest!!!
I think you need more exclamation points and capital letters. 😉
Thanks
Welcome
Avoider - I chart census records on a spreadsheet.
That's a fantastic use of a spreadsheet.
never used one
What have you used instead?
I've been doing this for 8 to 9 years and I only heard of research logs since RootsTech. Whatever.
There are many professional genealogists who swear by them and others who have simplified their research plan. Personally, between a research plan (ruclips.net/video/9MVfPrJLEPo/видео.html) and genealogy software, I find the logs not helpful. However, my voice is often quashed in certain circles. Glad you found this video.
That's really too bad that someone makes an appeal to their authority rather than proof with evidence.
Avoid research logs!!
Me too!!! We should form a club.
Not sure.
Fair enough. What is your process of researching?
Detest
Kindred spirits unite.
not sure
I understand. Have you used research logs or are you still learning about them?
@@FamilyHistoryFanatics ; I have tried to use it but thought it took to much time.
I avoid them at all costs. They don’t make sense in the digital age!
Agreed.
AVOID!
Awesome. We'll avoid together.
Avoider
Avoid!!
Welcome to the club.
avoid!!!!
Like the plague?
Avoid
Hee, hee. Glad I struck a chord.
avoid
Agree with you. I have recently started taking on clients, will utilize my Mac version of FamilyTree Maker more
Awesome. I am still playing around with Family Tree Maker to see if it would create research reports for clients as easily as RootsMagic does. I'll keep you posted and I'd love to hear your thoughts as well.
AVOID
Awesome
avoid
Me too!
Avoider
Hey! You joined the livestream today. Welcome to our club.
Avoid
Thanks for being a member of the club. I do love research plans. Have you seen that video?
Not sure
Now that you've watched the video. What do you think?
Family History Fanatics I’m still unsure as I’m a newbie and still learning
I do have roots magic free version, but am thinking of upgrading but I need to play around with it more and watch more of your helpful videos
Thank you for all your wonderful advice