Resources / Chronologies

Build the timeline
before trying to explain
everything at once.

A clear chronology separates what happened, when it happened, where the information came from, and how certain you are about the date. It helps you see the full picture and makes it easier to share your story.

Download chronology template

How a chronology works

Four parts to every entry.

Each event in your chronology has four key pieces. Separating them helps keep your information clear, consistent and easier to verify.

1. Date

When the event happened. Use an exact date, an approximate date, or mark it as unknown.

2. Event

A short, factual description of what happened. Keep it neutral and focused on the key facts.

3. Source

Where the information comes from. Link each event to at least one source, such as a document, message or witness.

4. Uncertainty

How confident you are about the date and details. It’s okay if you’re not sure — note the uncertainty instead of guessing.

Example

A scheduled hearing does
not establish that it occurred.

A notice shows a hearing was scheduled. A separate source is needed to show whether it actually happened.

Example entry — fictional

Seeing the four parts together.

Here’s how a single chronology entry separates the date, event, source and uncertainty.

Date: Exact dateApril 16, 2024; The date of the event.
Event: Hearing occurred.; A short, factual description.
Source: Court docket(04/16/2024); The document or other evidence.
Uncertainty: Confirmed dateSupported by this source.; How certain you are about the date.

Working with dates

Use the right date type.

Not every event has an exact date. Choose the option that best fits what you know.

Exact date

Use when you know the specific date.

April 16, 2024

Example: Court docket, emailed notice, or dated document.

Approximate date

Use when you know the general timeframe but not the exact date.

Spring 2024

Example: ‘Spring 2024,’ ‘early March 2024,’ or ‘around this time.’

Date unknown

Use when you know the event happened but not when.

Date unknown

Example: You remember it happened but can’t recall the date.

Complete context

A timeline tells a clearer story.

Individual documents show pieces of the picture. A chronology brings them together, making it easier to see how events connect over time.

List events in the order they happened.
Include all relevant sources.
Note any gaps or uncertainty.