Genealogy works from the known to the unknown, as it involves tracing your ancestry through numerous historical and government records. Genealogy research continues to grow in popularity as more people become interested in learning about their heritage. Human beings have a natural curiosity to learn about their belongings. The internet has made conducting genealogy research easier as public databases have become digital and more accessible. However, genealogy research can be time-consuming and challenging.

What is Genealogy?

Genealogy refers to studying family descent. It involves learning how an individual is connected to their family and the progression of the family tree through centuries. Researchers will create family trees to chart how families are connected and document the different branches within a family.

There are numerous methods to conduct genealogy research, varying from combing through databases of historical and public records to DNA testing. DNA testing as a tool for genealogy research has grown as several DNA testing companies today are helping individuals learn more about their family history.

Conducting Effective Genealogy Research

Tracing your roots through centuries is an arduous task. Sifting through mountains of public records takes time. However, there are methods you can employ to ensure your research is more efficient.

Identify What You Know

A reasonable starting point for your research is by identifying information you already possess. We recommend writing down your family history and utilizing standard formats, such as research logs and multi-generational charts.

Interview Elders

Whether it’s your cousins or your parents, interviewing your elder family members is helpful, as it allows you to compile information from living, accessible sources quickly. Older family members are essentially living libraries for your family’s history, and we recommend using the opportunity to obtain the necessary information from them.

Utilize Online Resources

The internet has made numerous databases widely accessible to the general public. Trips to public offices and libraries are no longer essential as these organizations are rapidly digitizing their information stores.

Therefore, utilizing online resources is critical. Social media platforms are also an excellent place to start. You can use these platforms to search and connect with people who share the same ancestral surname as you do. Most businesses and organizations today maintain social media pages, and scanning the web may prove fruitful as you may come across local organizations that keep records of ancestry and heritage.

There are also genealogy websites devoted to helping people trace their ancestry. Using these resources could be helpful. Furthermore, other specialized websites are dedicated to keeping records based on ethnicity, race, and religion. These websites may be able to guide your research further.

Get DNA Testing

If all other avenues yield unfruitful results, DNA testing may be an option to consider. There are several websites offering DNA testing services. These services often include information about ancestry.

Consult Professionals

Your ancestry research, however, can only get you so far., For more accurate results, contact a professional service. My Ireland Family Heritage is a genealogy and touring company that can help you trace your Irish roots.

At My Ireland Family Heritage, we help people trace their ancestors and learn about their lives. We have been serving people for the last 20 years in the fields of Irish Genealogy and tourism.

We offer personalized genealogy research services along with providing guided Irish genealogical tours. Contact us if you are interested in learning more about your Irish ancestry.