Embarking on the journey of genealogy research can be both exciting and daunting, especially for beginners. With Ancestry, one of the most popular genealogy websites, you have a powerful tool at your disposal to uncover your family’s history and discover your roots. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of using Ancestry as a beginner, helping you navigate the platform with ease and confidence.
Getting Started with Ancestry
Creating an Account
The first step in using Ancestry is to create an account. Visit the Ancestry website and sign up for a free account or choose a subscription plan that best suits your needs. Once registered, you’ll have access to a wealth of resources and tools to begin your genealogy journey.
Building Your Family Tree
After creating an account, you can start building your family tree on Ancestry. Begin by entering information about yourself and your immediate family members. Then, gradually expand your tree by adding details about your ancestors, such as names, dates of birth, and locations.
Exploring Historical Records
Ancestry offers a vast collection of historical records, including census data, birth and death records, immigration records, and military records. Take advantage of these resources to uncover valuable information about your ancestors and fill in missing pieces of your family tree.
Tips for Effective Research on Ancestry
Start with What You Know
Begin your research on Ancestry with what you already know about your family history. Gather information from family members, old photographs, documents, and any existing family trees to build a foundation for your research.
Use Search Filters
When searching for records on Ancestry, utilize the various search filters to narrow down your results. Filter by location, date range, and record type to find relevant records that match your research criteria.
Verify Sources
As you discover records and information about your ancestors on Ancestry, it’s essential to verify the sources for accuracy. Cross-reference information with multiple sources whenever possible to ensure its validity.
Collaborate with Others
Ancestry provides opportunities for collaboration with other genealogists and family members. Connect with relatives who may be researching the same family lines and share your findings to collaborate effectively.
Making the Most of Ancestry Resources
Learning Resources
Take advantage of Ancestry’s learning resources, including tutorials, webinars, and articles, to enhance your genealogy skills and learn new research techniques.
DNA Testing
Consider taking a DNA test through AncestryDNA to uncover ethnic origins and connect with genetic relatives who may help further your research.
Mobile App
Download the Ancestry mobile app to access your family tree and research tools on the go, allowing you to continue your genealogy journey anytime, anywhere.
