Getting Started in Genealogy: Tips from a Professional Genealogist
Seven (7) Great Tips to get started in your Genealogy Quest.
By Kelley Amstutz, The Genealogy Investigator
Genealogy is more than a hobby — it’s a meaningful journey into your family’s past, connecting you with the stories, struggles, and triumphs of those who came before you. As a professional genealogist, I’ve helped countless people begin their family history research, and I know that getting started can feel overwhelming. The good news? You don’t need to be an expert to begin uncovering your roots.
Here are my top tips to help you get started in genealogy research:
1. Start with What You Know
Begin your research at home. Write down your own details — full name, birth date, place of birth — then move backward: parents, grandparents, great-grandparents.
Talk to living relatives. Ask about names, places, occupations, military service, and family traditions. These conversations can be priceless sources of information and clues.
Tip: Record interviews or take detailed notes. Even casual stories can lead to breakthrough discoveries later.
2. Organize Your Information
Keeping your research organized from the beginning will save you time and frustration later.
Use a family tree chart or a genealogy software program to keep track of names, dates, and relationships. As you uncover documents or photos, keep digital and/or physical copies neatly filed and clearly labeled.
Recommended tools: FamilySearch, Ancestry, MyHeritage, RootsMagic, or free templates from genealogy societies.
3. Use Free Online Resources
There are excellent free resources to help you get started:
FamilySearch.org – A massive, free genealogy database
FindAGrave.com – Cemetery records and tombstone photos
USGenWeb Project – Volunteer-based archives organized by state and county
Cyndi’s List – A curated directory of genealogy websites by topic
Start with census records, birth and death certificates, marriage licenses, and military records — these documents form the backbone of solid genealogical research.
4. Cite Your Sources
Even if you’re just beginning, get into the habit of citing your sources. Document where each piece of information came from — a census record, a family Bible, a conversation with Aunt Mary. This builds the credibility of your tree and allows others (and your future self!) to verify and build on your work.
5. Expect Brick Walls — and Be Patient
You will encounter gaps in records, conflicting information, and mysteries that don’t resolve right away. That’s part of the journey. Genealogy requires persistence, creative thinking, and sometimes even a little intuition. Don’t be discouraged. Every small discovery is progress.
6. Consider DNA Testing
Genetic genealogy has opened up incredible new avenues of research. If you're ready, take a DNA test with a reputable company (AncestryDNA, 23andMe, MyHeritage, or FamilyTreeDNA) and use the results to confirm relationships or find new branches of your family tree.
Note: Understanding DNA matches can be complex. Be sure to educate yourself or seek help when interpreting results.
7. Join the Genealogy Community
One of the best parts of genealogy is the supportive community. Join local or online genealogy groups, attend webinars or conferences, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Connecting with others can lead to discoveries, inspiration, and lasting friendships.
Ready to Go Deeper?
If you're excited to take your research further, I invite you to check out my self-paced online courses:
🔍 The Genealogy Academy – Master traditional genealogy research = https://payhip.com/b/76wfg
🧬 The DNA & Genetic Genealogy Academy – Learn to use DNA to solve family mysteries = https://payhip.com/b/PQU7Z
👉 Both courses are currently 75% off for a limited time!
Genealogy is a lifelong journey that brings history to life. Whether you're uncovering ancestors who crossed oceans, fought in wars, or built communities, every step you take helps preserve the legacy of your family. And that’s something truly powerful.
Happy researching!
–Kelley Amstutz, The Genealogy Investigator
Professional Genealogist | Educator | Family History Advocate