Don't worry about creating a comprehensive outline in one sitting! Outlines are flexible and you can add, delete, or edit them as you plan the book. You can be a detailed or as simple as you like with an outline; sub-headings can be used to indicate every single item you wish to discuss, or you can use more general headings and allow yourself more freedom to write without a firm structure. However you use it, an outline is very important-they keep you on track, give you an idea of where the book is going, what the focus is, and where you are as you write.

The Mechanics of Writing Your Family History, Part II will discuss programs and online resources which may be used to create a family history book, including information about numbering systems. Part III will discuss using graphics, creating an index, and publishing your book in traditional and electronic (e-book and online publishing) formats.