To save yourself time when you go to the library or when you visit someone to obtain information, it is helpful to have an idea of what you want to find -- what you are looking for -- your objective. In doing this, the Research Log can be very useful. For example: Now that you have the Family Research Folder set up for your family you need documents to verify the names, dates and places on the family group record. Sit down, open the folder, think to yourself, "Now what documents do I need to accomplish my objective?" Or in other words, what do you need to verify or add to the names, dates, and places recorded on the status family group record.

As you think of a document needed, turn to the Research Log that lists the record category to which that document belongs. Write down what you desire and where it might be found. For example: Your marriage date and place can be verified from your marriage certificate. If you have that in your home, turn to the Research Log for "Home Sources" and write down that you want to find the marriage certificate of ______ and ______ (you and your spouse). Then list where it is now -- a scrap book, third drawer in the bedroom dresser, a box under the bed -- or else who has it in their possession. (see Figure 11)

Now proceed to another objective -- your date of birth. This will probably be verified by a birth certificate. Since a birth certificate is a civil record, you turn to your Research Log labeled "Civil Sources" and write down that you want your birth certificate. The place it is kept is filled in next. This might be at the ____ (state) record office. If you already have a copy of this certificate at home, you then turn to the Research Log labeled "Home Sources" and write down that you want your birth certificate and where it is located. This means this information is written down on two Research Logs. (see Figure 12)

If for some reason you don't have a birth certificate, choose another source that will verify your date of birth and turn to the appropriate Research Log. Then fill it out as described above.

Sometimes you may know that someone has plenty of information, but you do not know the nature of the information. In that case just list their name under "Home Sources" and plan to visit them. You need not list the information wanted. (see Figure 13)

When you have finished listing the documents you need to find, the sources you need to search, and the people you need to visit to verify the data on your family group record, then it is time to do the research.