The record consists of the pleadings and papers filed, the exhibits admitted, and the transcript. Anything else is outside it, and arguments resting on material outside it are disregarded or stricken.
Ordering transcripts. The appellant must order the portions necessary and serve notice; where a challenge is to the sufficiency of the evidence, the whole of the relevant testimony is required or the challenge fails.
Missing transcripts. Where no transcript exists, procedures allow a statement of the evidence reconstructed by the parties and settled by the trial court. These are cumbersome and worth avoiding by ordering promptly.
Exhibits. Admitted exhibits are part of the record; those merely marked and refused are included only if an offer of proof was made. Confirm that exhibits were physically transmitted, because their absence is discovered at the worst moment.
Sealed material. Confidential portions require a motion and often a redacted public version. Plan for the additional time.
Appendices. Where the system requires a joint appendix or record excerpts, selection is strategic: include what the court must read, and do not bury the key document among hundreds of pages.
Correcting the record. Rules permit correction of omissions or misstatements by stipulation or motion. Do it before briefing, because a brief citing material that is not in the record damages credibility that cannot be rebuilt.