Thinking of Ancestors

           THERE are two things I'd recommend to folks doing genealogy.  One is for off-computer, and the second is when you are on the computer. 

            The word "scanning" is quickly losing a long-held definition; most people think of a scanner!  But "scanning" documents (book pages) is useful when you are doing a busy research trip to a library or courthouse.  Scanning uses your eyes to pick out particular words or names, or even phrases.  None of us have the time to sit and read every word on a page (well, unless you want to read the book, chapter or page).  I can spend 5-10 minutes using my eyes to "scan" down many pages and still have time to look at other sources.

            If you have trouble scanning with your eyes, use a flat-edge (a ruler, a piece of paper, etc.); lay the flat-edge under each line of print or handwritten words.  Move the flat-edge down the page line by line.  Use your eyes to move across the line from left to right.  Try to scan, move the flat edge down, and scan the next line, as fast as you can.  Practice building up speed WITH accuracy!  It won't help to fast-scan if you end up missing what you are looking for. 

       Scanning with your eyes can also be done on computer pages, but it may be harder because one web page can equal 20 or more regular printed pages.  So on computers use the FIND function.  Go ahead, try it now, on this page (I think AOL will allow it), or use it on another web page.  Press & hold your Ctrl Key (on the keyboard), and click the letter 'f' key once.  A box opens "Find in Top Window."  Type in what word you want to look for and click "Find." 

       You will be surprised at how much time you can save!  Even on search engines (like the census), you might get a list of John Lane, John P. Lane, John K. Lane, John M. Lane.  If you only want the John P. Lanes, search for John P.   If you are looking for a certain date or year, search on that.  A list of 50 "results" may end up being 2 that you really want.  And the Find feature helps eye-strain!

        Try scanning with youreyes or using Find during your next research efforts.  If you have trouble with it, practice using it.  Don't worry, you can always go back and read the entire page if you need to!

~ Lace

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