Genealogy Methods and Techniques
Genealogy Methods and Techniques
A Practical Guide to Research
My book Genealogy Methods and Techniques: A Practical Guide to Research has now been published and is available to order from major bookstores in the UK (publication dates may vary in different countries) as well as from my publishers, Crowood Press.
Read about my writing journey here.
From the cover:
Genealogy Methods and Techniques offers practical guidance on how to get the most from your family history research and be confident in the results. Suitable both for beginners who want to get things right from the start, and for experienced researchers with thorny problems to solve, this book offers tips and tricks for everyone. This book takes the reader on a journey through a series of research strategies, providing guidance at every step of the way. With clear explanations, real-life case studies and over 100 tables, charts and illustrations, it will equip you to apply best practices to your own research right from the start. Whether your research focuses on an in-depth analysis of a single individual or location, or tracing multiple generations of a family tree, this guide offers the structured approach and essential tools required to achieve reliable and meaningful results.
Dr Karen Cummings is a qualified and accredited professional genealogist and tutor, with many years of family history research experience. She is the owner of Pharos Tutors, the UK’s leading provider of online family history courses, and is a long-standing Member of the Association of Genealogists and Researchers in Archives (AGRA), where she has served on both the Council and the Board of Assessors. Formerly a registered pharmacist, Karen brings a scientific background to her specialist areas of genealogical research methodology and the use of DNA testing in family history.
Watch the video below for my introduction to the book and what you might expect.
Comments from my readers
"...this is a valuable and thoughtful contribution to modern genealogical literature, combining sound methodology with practical guidance and international relevance."
Jill Ball, GeniAus blog
"Karen has brought a plain-English, straightforward approach to a subject that can seem daunting and off-putting. Where some could get distracted by complexity or take a heavy-handed approach, Karen consistently delivers pragmatism over dogmatism... If you are looking for a skeleton key to unlock those stubborn “brick wall” cases, a better lantern in the record office or a compass in the genealogical fog, Karen Cummings’ Genealogy Methods and Techniques is for you."
Read the full review here
Phil Isherwood,
Seeing the Wood for the Trees blog
“... this book deserves a place on every beginner’s shelf and is strongly recommended for serious or professional genealogists aiming to work at a high level, particularly when it comes to organisation and methodological rigour.”
Emma Jolly, Genealogic
“... Karen suggests a variety of methods and tools, without pushing which is the ‘correct’ one. She allows the reader to decide which works best for them, whilst considering the benefits and shortcomings of each, in a well-balanced appraisal... I have shelves and shelves of genealogy books, but this one will be joining a treasured few that will remain next to me on my desk.”
Kelly Cornwell, Who Am I? Family Tree Research
“....this is a very effective guide that will help the humble genealogist stay on track with their research. Each chapter is clear, concise, and well illustrated, concluding with a summary of key points and action points to consider in going forward”
Chris Paton, Scottish GENES blog
“The book is like sitting down with an old friend, it is written in such a way that encourages us to challenge ourselves across eleven chapters. This book is highly recommended and every genealogist should have a copy on their bookshelves.”
Julie Goucher, Guild of One-Name Studies
“No matter if you are just beginning your journey into genealogy research or are an accomplished researcher, this book is for you. I only wish this had existed when I first started it would have been so helpful. Despite the fact that I have been researching for numerous years, I still found it a refreshing approach to research methods, and learnt different ways of researching, some new methods, and it reinforced why you need to be methodical.”
Heather Nowlan, Family Tree Searchers
“Definitely worth the money and worth refering to again after you read it. Get your own copy right away. I’m going to be recommending it to my students.”
Clare Bradley, CBGenealogy
“Essential reading for all family historians who want to feel confident that the people they are adding to their family tree really are their ancestors.”
John Wintrip, AGRA Member
From the Foreword to Genealogy Methods and Techniques:
"Karen’s book is an invaluable resource to family historians at all levels. With all my experience I even learned new ideas and was reminded of the importance of recording sources and in checking the accuracy of information. Each chapter within the book relates to a specific topic looking at possible research questions and objectives and describing the methodology of research. I have always said that to be a good family historian that you must like the challenge of solving a Whodunit and have the patience to complete a jigsaw. Not everyone has a logical mind and can sometimes be overwhelmed by the thrill of the chase, thus missing vital clues or making silly mistakes on the way – it is all part of our learning curve..."
Ian Waller, FSG, AGRA Fellow
Learning more about methodology
If you want to learn more about methodology head over to my Talks and Courses page to see what I have coming up both in person and online.
Tips & Tricks for Family Historians
Are you new to family history research and looking for some advice? Or a professional historian after some tips from a fellow researcher? Check out my blog where I share tips, tricks, and even my own family history journey.
