The First Steps in Genealogy

What is your background? Where is your family from? These are just a few questions one is asked. How do you begin to find out your ancestry? The internet has a wealth of information just a few clicks away. There are sites available that have some free tools to help you as you begin this all important task.

Lineages.com has some first steps that will get you started on your mission. They have a free toolkit that has access to the all-important research one will need. Some of the forms included is a research calendar, a family group record, and census abstract forms. There are also some genealogy quick tips such as junior attached to a name and spelling of names. Junior might refer to the younger of two males. The spelling could also be tricky, and just because it does not use common spelling, does not mean to disregard it. Another all-important step is documenting everything. When using a census, remember there are a few years that did not record everyone in the house, only the head of the household. Also, be sure and watch for duplicate names.

Make finding your family history fun. How you want to document your findings is another important question to ask. Be sure to include your interest, and who is your recorded information intended for. Genealogy 101 has some step by step instructions. They believe the first step is to gather all your information, papers, photos, and important documents. Some clue that many forget to check is the old family bible, back of old photographs, or even on some old postcards. Remember to make this mission fun. Don't be discouraged, if one runs into a road block, find another avenue to explore.