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**FamilySearch.org**: The largest free genealogy database with billions of records **FindAGrave.com**: Cemetery records and memorial information **USGenWeb**: State and county-level resources Ancestry.com MyHeritage Findmypast County courthouses Local libraries Historical societies Church records Funeral homes Ethnicity estimates Cousin matching Migration patterns **Start broad, then narrow**: Begin with general searches before getting specific **Use wildcards**: Account for spelling variations **Cross-reference sources**: Verify information with multiple records **Document everything**: Note where you found each piece of information **Join communities**: Connect with others researching similar surnames Assuming all family stories are accurate Ignoring female ancestors (harder to trace but equally important) Not checking for name variations Relying on a single source
How to Research Your Ancestry: Expert Tips and Resources
Discover professional techniques for researching your ancestry. From online databases to local archives, learn where to find valuable family history information.
Dr. James Wilson
November 15, 2024
12 min read
Introduction to Ancestry Research
Researching your ancestry can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach and resources, you can uncover fascinating details about your family's past. This guide shares expert techniques used by professional genealogists.
Online Resources
Free Databases
Subscription Services
Local Resources
Don't overlook local sources:
DNA Testing
DNA testing has revolutionized genealogy:
Research Best Practices
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Next Steps
Ready to start your research? Tree Family helps you organize and visualize your findings as you discover your ancestry.
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