Copying Sources: Difference between revisions

* '''''Strive to see the original with your own eyes. '''''This helps you judge if you understand the full context of the source, if any alterations have been made, and cite the source’s current repository.''''''''''

* <span><span><span></span></span></span>'''''Make copies from the most original source.''''' The closer to the original source (fewer generations of copies), the less chance reproduction errors have been introduced.''''''''''

* <span><span><span></span></span></span>'''''Make copies as clear and readable as possible.''''' This helps you and others see all the data and clues.''''''''''

* <span><span><span></span></span></span>'''''Capture the context. '''''Make sure you copy all relevant pieces and know what is before and after your pages in the source.''''''''''

* <span><span><span></span></span></span>'''''Search nearby for neighbors and relatives.''''' Part of the context of a document is the family’s community. When you know the role of neighbors and associates you often discover they were also relatives of your ancestor.''''''''''

* <span><span><span></span></span></span>'''''Watch out for alterations or poor maintenance.''''' Changes are sometimes made that affect the reliability of the source.''''''''''

* <span><span><span></span></span></span>'''''Learn the provenance of the original source.''''' Where your source came from and who controlled it is important to judging its reliability.''''''''''

* <span><span><span></span></span></span>'''''Show where and when your copy was made.''''' Knowing the provenance of your copy is also important. Write it on your research log and on the copy.''''''''''

* <span><span><span></span></span></span>'''''Organize and [[Document AS YOU GO!|document AS YOU GO]].''''' Keep your paper work and filing up-to-date. Immediately write the source footnote information on (1) the front your copy, (2) your research log, and (3) as a source footnote on your family group record. Summarize the findings from the source (copy) on your research log. Transfer new data from the source to your family group. Give a preliminary evaluation of the source in its footnote. Give each copy a unique document number and file it. Do all this BEFORE you start another search. ''''''''''

* <span><span><span></span></span></span>'''''Store copies so they will be useful in 100 years.''''' So far this means paper copies are best. 100 years from now your descendants may not know how to boot your computer or run its software, but they can easily read a paper copy.''''''''''

* <span><span><span></span></span></span>'''''Respect Intellectual Property.''''' Comply with copyright laws, intellectual property licenses, and avoid plagiary.''''''''''