Do-over? Am I crazy?
With over 35 years of research on all of my lines I think I might be – especially where I’ve already done a ‘do-over’ once. When I converted my data from PAF to Master Genealogist I reviewed my data. During that process, what was a NOTE in PAF became an event in TMG and citations were added. I used Elizabeth Shown Mill’s book, Evidence! Citation and Analysis for the Family Historian, to create the templates for my citations.
During the early stages of my research, I also ran into the ‘how do I organize’ this stuff problem. About that time, I had the privilege of attending a workshop where William Dollarhide spoke. After hearing about his organization method, I decided to adopt it. Thus, my files of research are in folders by Surname.State.number. This has proven a very workable filing system – especially where I have had to research several lines to begin to identify my own line. I plan to continue using my version of the Dollarhide system as I digitize my files.
So, why am I participating? One of the major reasons I’m participating is to improve my skills. One area that I’ve always struggled with was keeping a research log. From my early days as a researcher, I was aware that I needed to do this but for some reason, I haven’t stuck with it — particularly when documenting resources that did not provide any information. In the process of getting better at logging my research, I would like to learn to use OneNote and/or Evernote.
Another reason for participating is to hopefully learn new research methods to help break down my brick walls – and I have quite a few.
