Whether you use file cards, a looseleaf notebook, or another recording system, be consistent in noting your information so that you can find it again when you need it. Keep unproved records in pencil so they can be changed. Spellings of names vary a great deal in records. Decide on a way to indicate in your notes that you have copied the spelling correctly. Dates of birth, death, and marriage may be found in family bibles, on tombstones, and in state, federal or local records.
Approximate ages appear in the census records.
Try every source. Federal census records since 1850 show state of birth and indicate the family migration. Newspaper obituaries, county histories, some land and probate records also give clues to residence. Probate records can be proof of a relationship. Even when there is no will, records of estate settlements may show heirs and relationships.