Hi all
So, you have all this information but no idea where to go or what to do with it? Believe me, I know.
Should it be all digital? Should it be online? Should it be printed? Should it be both? This is every new researchers question.
The short answer is: It is up to you.
I have made mine digital which I back up on a regular basis as well as save it on the cloud. This ensures that you have 2 extra copies in case your hard drive crashes.
This is how I have done my saving of files:
- My family Tree: This was a trial and error exercise since I didn't know if I wanted to have the software version on my computer or whether I wanted it online. In the end, I opted to have it online since other people can add information as well the fact that you won't lose your whole family tree if your hard drive decides to die.
- My filing: I have a folder for every ancestor on my PC. They each contain a number.
As an example:
I am 1 - Byleveld, L
My dad is 2 - Byleveld, JMD (His dad 4. his mom 5)
My mom will be 3 - Broodryk, CP (Her dad 6, her mom 7)
I also have a spreadsheet with the basic family tree indicating everyones number.
This system starts making a lot of sense if you remember that the person you are looking at's dad will be their number doubled and the mother doubled +1. As an example I am number 1, my dad is 2 (double 1) and my mom is 3 (double 1 + 1). Or my mom is 3, her dad is 6 (double 3) and her mom is 7 (double 3 + 1). Eventually you will be able to get the hang if it and your folders on your PC will read 1. Byleveld, L and any documents relating to the ancestor is in that file. You also always have 2 checks - a name and a number which simplifies things. If you are using a genealogy program, you can renumber each person according to this numbering system as well.
This just worked for me, but you might be able to use any other numbering system that works for you.
Hope this helps.
I will be back with some more tips on organising your information soon!
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