Some forms may require you to do more work than others; for example, a migration trail map is much more difficult to create than it is to print out a family group sheet from your genealogy database. However, it is important that you take the time to enter the information in as many useful formats as you can. The key word here is useful -- if you find yourself wasting time by duplicating the information on forms which serve no purpose, you've gone over the Genealogy Chart & Form deep end, and you should re-evaluate which forms you really need.

After filling out the forms, take a step back and look at them with a critical eye.

• Is the information displayed in a more logical manner?
• Does it clarify what areas you need to concentrate your research on?
• Does it show the holes in your research?
• Does it make clear where you've been in your research?
• Are ideas for further avenues of research indicated?

Hopefully all of the above will apply.

Before you throw out your miscellaneous bits of papers, notes, etc. give them a quick once-over. Do you have all of the information contained on the paper copied elsewhere? Is the paper something unique (a photocopy) that you might want to save? Only after you are satisfied that you have the important information can you toss the clutter.