Putting your genealogy together

Putting it all together: Step 3 of 3

You have made it.  Your notebook is full your ears still ringing. You feel content with the new information that you have learned about your ancestors.  The next step includes making everything unified and complete.

Researching genealogy is like putting together a puzzle.  Knowing genealogy is like seeing that puzzle completed.  What you need to do now is become organized.  Ask yourself what you want to do with the information.  You could make a booklet or create a written document to share with your family, or you could just hold documents in a folder somewhere to continue the tradition of word of mouth.  I suggest doing both.

1. Map it out.  What do you want to make.  If it is a booklet, literally write it out.  Page 1 will include a family tree starting with me; page 2 will include the history of emigration.  Whatever approach you take it will help you tremendously to create a game plan before starting.
2. As you begin to write stick to the facts.  You can include possible leads and unanswered questions, but leave them as a speculation and not factual information.  That will reduce the chances of future generations being misinformed.
3. Get others involved.  Yes, you have done the work, but after all this is a family affair.  Tell others what you are up to.  Perhaps, people in your family will be able to help make it better.
4. Share what you have created.  There is no point in knowing information if you are not going to share it.
5. Enjoy it.  Enjoy the fruits of your labor.  All of those nights spent staring at the computer or flipping through pictures and books have finally culminated into something special.  You deserve to be excited.  Be proud of your history and heritage.
6. Lastly, teach others.  Whether you have learned specific things about other’s families or about the process in general, don’t be afraid to share these thoughts and tips with others.  We grow by sharpening one another.

You have just read step 3 of 3 for researching your genealogy.  If you wish to start from the beginning and read step 1 please click here.  To go back to step 2 click here.

I hope that this process has been good for you and you enjoyed my articles.  

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