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=== Formats of Records === | === Formats of Records === | ||
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|+ '''Formats of Records''' | |||
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Genealogical records come in a variety of formats, each with its own benefits and limitations. These formats are usually determined by the record's nature, creator, or repository. | |||
*'''''Actual documents''''' were created near the time of the event by someone associated with it. Original records were usually handwritten on sheets of paper or in books. Such records may be found in archives, or still in the care of the organization that created them. Some printed records such as newspapers are considered original records for some kinds of information. | |||
*'''''Published books''''' may contain compiled records or original records (such as city directories). A publication may also be a printed copy of the actual document, such as: | |||
**A ''transcript'' (an exact, complete copy of an original record). | |||
**An ''extract ''(an exact, partial copy of an original record). | |||
**An ''abstract'' (a brief summary of important information, not using the language of the original). | |||
**A ''database printout'' (could be original or an abstract copy). | |||
Remember that extracts, abstracts and most databases seldom include all the information a researcher may want. | |||
*'''''Microform''''' records are original records or published books which have been photographed on microfilm (roll film) or microfiche (sheet of film). This makes multiple copies available to research libraries or archives. | |||
*'''''Computer files''''' may contain compiled or original records. Often such files only abstract or index the original information. Sometimes they include an image of the original document. Computer files may appear in several formats: | |||
**''Compact disc'' (CD-ROM). | |||
**''Databases'' usually on one computer network. | |||
**''Internet'' files available online worldwide at no charge, or for a subscription fee. These online databases come in many formats. Some may invite users to contribute new information, others may include millions of names in large commercial or government sources like old censuses, or Social Security death records. | |||
**''Web pages'' or ''blogs'' of individual genealogists. | |||
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