Build a useful event timeline

One event, one source, and a clear statement of what remains unknown.

This is an original editorial organization guide. It is not a filing form, legal conclusion, or claim assessment.

Use six columns

Work from the record

1. Give each document a stable filename or ID. Preserve the original and make notes in a separate working copy.
2. Use short, neutral descriptions. Attribute statements to the speaker or document.
3. Keep an order's language separate from a party's request and from your understanding of the result.
4. Add later responses or outcomes in separate rows. Keep relevant contrary information.
5. Mark a missing source as unverified rather than filling the gap with an assumption.

Before sharing

Remove children's identifying details and private contact, financial, medical, and therapy information. Do not share sealed or confidential records through public posts. Keep a private original and prepare a separate redacted version only when sharing is appropriate.

Preparation checklist · Editorial standards · Official resources