Weekly Genealogy Toolkit

Research Logs - Stay on Track

It's easy to get lost when you are working on a challenging genealogy project. Try leaving yourself some breadcrumbs so you can retrace your path if you need to, or get back on track if it's been a while since you last worked on that project. This episode is all about research logs... the genealogical breadcrumbs. 

What I learned at RootsTech

RootsTech 24 was a great conference. No matter how experienced you are in genealogy, there's always something to learn there and this year was no different.  So, grab your favorite cozy spot and let's unravel the magic of RootsTech together. 

Get ready for RootsTech

This week, I spill the beans on the ultimate genealogy event: RootsTech! Whether you're a seasoned researcher or just dipping your toes into the gene pool, RootsTech offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect, learn, and grow.
Join me as I share the inside scoop on why you should mark your calendar for this must-attend event, whether you're joining in person or online. From inspiring keynotes to hands-on classes, there's something for everyone at RootsTech.
Don't miss out on the chance to supercharge your genealogy journey. 

Types of Evidence

Have you ever felt stuck chasing that one perfect source? Well, here's the scoop: sometimes it just doesn't exit. Sometimes you need to look at indirect or negative evidence pieced together across several sources to find the answer to your question. Listen now to discover how to find those diamonds in the rough and what to do when things aren't crystal clear. 

Using the FAN club

Today we're unpacking the game-changing FAN Club Methodology. Discover how exploring the connections of Friends and Family, Acquaintances, and Neighbors can help you smash through those stubborn brick walls in your family tree.

Fish and the art of research plans

Research plans can help your time spent doing genealogy more productive. Rather than just search, do REsearch. A good research plan is the difference between catching and not catching those fish. 
FamilySearch Research Wiki
Example Research Plan Templates and Examples
Family Tree Resources
My Family History Files
American Ancestors
FamilySearch

Using your DNA results

Waiting for your DNA test results to come back can remind you of being a kid on Christmas eve again. It just seems like you'll never get that e-mail stating that they are ready. But they will be ready some day, and what are you going to do with the results? How can you use your DNA to help with your work on your family tree... and what dangers are awaiting you? 
 
Good online sources for DNA work: 
DNAPainter
ISOGG Wiki (International Society of Genetic Genealogy)
GEDMatch.com (another site where you can upload your data and get matches)
Genealogy Junkie DNA Tips
DNAeXplained - Endogamy 
Board for the Certification of Genealogists - DNA Resources
FamilyTreeDNA Blog
 

Other People's Trees - Here there be monsters

Most of the online genealogy sites make grabbing information from other people's trees easy. It's great to share, but what about when that information is wrong? This is the mistake that most genealogists make!

The US Federal Census - Get the most out of it

The US Federal Census is the first source that most new genealogists gain real experience with. This is because it's a fantastic source. From being recorded at regular intervals, to including a wide range of interesting and helpful information, learning how to maximize the usefulness of the US Federal Census will get you started in the right direction. 
 
Blank Census Forms - Great deskside references.
IPUMS USA - Get enumerator instructions and more. 

Welcome to Genealogy - Where do you start?

Genealogy is such a fantastic way to connect with your own story. But where do you start? The best thing you can do, is start with what you know.