How to Prepare For Your Genealogy Research

Genealogy research is a hobby that is growing in popularity. You can conduct a name genealogy search, look for information by nationality, or try to find out specific genealogy information about your ancestors. All of this, and more, is available on the Internet. Ensure, before you jump in to your search and become overwhelmed, that you take these steps to be organized and ready to create your own family tree.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Family Genealogy Search Basic Tools – A computer, or access to one, with Internet access is a key component of doing a thorough online genealogy search.

2. Genealogy Database Backup - Backup for your data is a very important step. You do not want all of your hard work lost because of a computer crash. Put you work into a ‘zip’ format so it takes less room on your CD R/W disc. To do this right click on the file you would like to backup, and send it to ‘win zip’. Your computer will pack it like a suitcase so now the file folder has a zipper on it. Save that to your back up disc.

3. Genealogy Photo, Charts, and Important Records – A scanner is an important research tool. You will use it to scan pictures and legal documents into your computer or directly into your genealogy software program.

4. Family History Record Keeping - Printer – Although your information is being neatly organized with the genealogy software program on your computer it is a good idea to keep paper copies. Use a color printer and then save the printed family information so it can be portable with you when you attend family gathering, picnics, etc. This way to do not have to pass up a chance to have other members of your family look at what you have accomplished. They may be able to provide one more names or remember one more incident from the past to assist you in your genealogy research.

5. Genealogy Research Resources – Now that you have the tools for your genealogy research in place you will need a place to start searching for your ancestors and other pertinent information. There are three ways to start your search. Talk with other family members, go to your local library or county office, or turn to the Internet. Here is a list of what types of information you will be looking for in your genealogy research.

6. -Ask family – A fun way to find out information about your family is to get your relatives involved in your search. Each member of your family, especially your elders, will be able to provide you with some sort of information you can document and research.

7. -Library – Although there is a lot of information at your fingertips with the Internet a trip to your local library to work with the research Librarians is invaluable. Every piece of information you can find can be documented and help you to form a strong family tree.

8. -Family Tree Software - Freeware, shareware, and retail genealogy software programs. *Depending on your level of experience, there are two websites that will assist you in finding the correct software to fit your needs. GENSOFTREVIEWS.COM, with some basic questions you will be provided options for genealogy software. The GENEALOGICAL SOFTWARE REPORT CARD (http://www.mumford.ca/reportcard) evaluates 22 genealogy research software programs. Check out both of these resources to find the genealogical software that will fit your usage needs. Although an official software program is not necessary it is one of those ‘technological advances” that you will soon wonder how you lived without it.

9. Get Organized Before Starting your Genealogy Research – This step is important so you can break your research into easily understandable segments. If you do not find a single focus to start with the project will become overwhelming. There are ‘FAMILY GROUP SHEETS’ available free on the Internet, that you can download and put into a three ring binder. When you begin finding information always, always document where you found the information. This will help you as you begin to cross reference down the road. Devise A FILING SYSTEM so keep all of these sheets. There will be dozens and then hundred of different types of these sheets and having a filing system right away will help you find the information quickly later on.

10. Genealogy Websites – There are many research websites to use to begin your online genealogy research. These two offer an array of information, for the new to the well seasoned genealogist, to get started and offers many links and resources to assist you in your search for your family tree **“GENEALOGYTODAY.com’** and **‘CYNDISLIST.com’**.

Tips & Warnings

• Family genealogy research is a rewarding hobby and necessary for many reasons. Start your genealogy research with the proper organization steps outline here and you will find enjoyment and success in finding your genealogy history.

Resources

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[GetATrip]

on 2/28/2009 Thanks George,you are an inspiration for all of us newer writers. If I could sort out my friends list to form a "master list" of just my favorite writers, you'd be right in front. I have never known where my last name Terry has its origins and now with the resources from two of your articles, I am going to find out--then give it as a gift to my whole family. 10* and a double recommend.

[eliptica]

on 2/17/2009 Thanks for the great article. My sister needs to read this.

[jennen]

on 1/5/2009 I really need to do this... thank you for the help in getting started!!! 5*

[AlishaV]

on 1/5/2009 It is really important to be organized and get the geneology work done in an orderly manner to avoid getting confused. This is really important if talking to older relatives that will soon die. You don't want to lose any information they give you since you'll never be able to get it back.

[LilacGirl]

on 1/5/2009 Good advice, helpful suggestions, and lots of detail. This article should help anyone get started tracing their family tree.