Basics of Genealogy

Begin your family history journey with clear, foundational knowledge about genealogy research. Learn essential terminology, understand how records are organised, and discover the first steps to tracing your ancestors.

Becoming a Professional Genealogist
You don't need formal qualifications to become a genealogist, but you'll need history knowledge and research skills to do the job well.
DNA Testing and Genealogy
DNA tests can't build your family tree instantly, but they reveal ethnic origins and connections to relatives you didn't know about.
Family History: How Far Back Can You Go?
Most family trees hit a wall around 1837, but parish records can take you back further if you know where to look.
Family History: What Do You Want To Learn?
Tracing your family tree can become addictive, showing you where your ancestors lived and helping you feel connected to your roots.
Genealogy Problems You May Enounter In Your Family History Search
Run into spelling mistakes and conflicting dates while researching your family tree? Here's how to handle common genealogy problems.
How Record Keeping Changed in the 19th Century
The government took over record keeping from churches in 1836, centralising birth, marriage and death certificates for the first time.
How to Make a Family Tree
A family tree shows your ancestors in a focused visual format, tracing either your mother's or father's side back through the generations.
How to Make Use of Genealogy Reference Books
Genealogy reference books offer practical guidance you can keep handy while researching your family history, especially when you're just getting started.
Organising Your Family History Data
Keep your family history research organised with a simple filing system so you can quickly find the information you need when building your tree.
Preparing To Trace Your Family Tree
Get organised before you start researching your family history with the right forms and supplies to keep your findings in order.
The Importance of Wills in Genealogy
Wills reveal family relationships and wealth details that census records can't, making them invaluable for building complete family histories.
What Genealogy Qualifications Can You Obtain?
Get a recognised genealogy qualification through the Institute of Heraldic and Genealogical Studies.
Where To Begin In Researching Family History
Start your family history research at home with photos, documents, and relatives before hunting through old records.
Why Does Family History Fascinate Us?
People move constantly in modern life, so we're turning to family history to find the roots and sense of belonging we've lost.