Described are a method, computer program product, and system for obtaining a copy of source data in a consistent state. One or more file operations having a corresponding time sequence which modify said source data are recorded. A request for a copy of the source data in a consistent state is received. It is determined at which point in the corresponding time sequence said source data is in a consistent state as a result of applying a portion of the file operations. The point in the corresponding time sequence at which the source data is in a consistent state is marked. The portion of file operations determined to place the source data in a consistent state is applied to the copy of the source data.