Should explanatory notes (eg change in surname spelling) be referenced differently than sources?

Question

I wanted to enter information I have found about why and how the fathers surname of "Carnes" came to be spelled "Curnes", "Curns" and "Carnes" among his children. This really isn't a "source", but is "source"  the only way to add a footnote?  Sorry if I missed the explanation of this.  I'm new.   ~ Ellen

 

PS - This is both a technical and a style question. I see the suggestion to use the <ref>X</ref> convention to create a footnote, but I don't understand how to create a wholly different serially numbered section or whether to just include them in order in the Souces section.

Answer 1

Hi Ellen,

I've done quite a few of these.  I just copy/paste an existing source and edit it to reflect the new source.  Just make sure to change the S numbers on the new source to something not used on that profile.

I'm talking about copy/pasting a source like this:

* Source: <span id='S3544'>S3544</span> Title: [https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/XXNT-SX9 Indiana, Marriages, 1811-1959].
 

There are two references to S3544.  Those both need to be changed to a different number and the rest of the text needs to be changed to whatever you're citing.  Basically, I'm using an existing source as a template to make the new one.

Answer 2

Hi Ellen,

Great question. I would do this as a footnote, like you say. Include an explanation enclosed in <ref></ref> tags. Then it will automatically appear as a numbered footnote wherever you put the <references /> tag.

If you prefer, you could also create a new section. It's up to you.

I'd suggest playing around a bit. Then post again here with the URL if you want more help. I'd be happy to take a look.

Chris