A method of tracking data objects is provided in accordance with an aspect of the invention. The method includes the step of storing in a workspace memory a first data object having first data object attributes. The method includes the step of storing in a palette memory the first data object where the first data object attributes do not match all attributes of any preexisting data object stored in the palette memory. The method includes the step of generating on a workspace window the first data object. The first data object is in accordance with the first data object attributes. The method includes the step of generating on a palette window a first thumbnail. The first thumbnail is a depiction of the first data object scaled to a predetermined size. A method for using a graphical computer application is also providing according to another aspect of the invention.