Start with yourself and work backwards one generation at a time. Your first goal is a documented relationship, rather than a large number of ancestors.
The method, step by step
- Record full names, places and known dates. Separate exact dates from estimates and retain the spelling found in the original record alongside any standardised name.
- Gather certificates, family papers and memories already available. Record who supplied each detail or which document contains it. Memories suggest avenues of research but do not replace records.
- Choose one relationship to verify, such as a grandparent’s parents. Find a record naming them and compare it with another source. Log unsuccessful searches with their date and scope.
- End the session with a specific question, a repository to consult and a next action. Keep living people private when sharing your tree.
What to record
Create one record per person with a stable identifier. For each parent-child link, note the document naming both people, its repository and outstanding checks. Keep hypothetical branches separate from the established tree.
Record in your research log
- Starting person
- proven link
- next question.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I start if I know little about my ancestors?
Start with your own records and work backwards to parents and grandparents. Note names, dates, places and the source of every detail. Verify one relationship before expanding.
Sources & references
- National Archives and Records Administration ↗ (Resource review date : )
- FranceArchives ↗ (Resource review date : )