There are many different genealogical charts that we can use to record and display our lineage. One of my preferred chart styles is the pedigree chart; it shows a person’s direct lineage (parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, etc.) and basic vital facts (name(s), birth/marriage/death dates) for each person and couple. Each person is assigned a Ahnentafel number; similar to an ID number. This number helps us easily identify that individual on other documents and charts and it helps us keep our genealogy research organized. For example, my mother is #3 on my ancestor chart and #3 on my ahnentafel report, family group sheet, and any other genealogy-related documents that I produce.
The most important piece of information that we must always remember to include for each fact is the source of the information; what documentation proves that fact. This can be recorded on the back of the chart or on a separate page. Just remember, if you don’t cite the sources, the information has no more value than gossip.
Visit Genealogy for Dummies for their overview of several genealogy charts and forms.
