Some sources will not fit on one line. A will, a pension file, an obituary, a chapter in a county history — these need room.

What it holds

Each block records the file number or family, the repository, the call or microfilm number, and the image number. Then the full source citation, the date you researched it, the time period and names you searched, your search objective, and a large open area for the details you found.

Two blocks fit on a page, so one sheet covers two substantial sources.

Write more than you think you need

Copy the wording that matters, not just your summary of it. Six months from now the exact phrase “his wife’s eldest son by a former marriage” will mean something that your note saying “mentions stepson” will not.

Try it

More than one answer is right. Choose all that apply.