Genealogy Methods and Techniques
Genealogy Methods and Techniques
A Practical Guide to Research
My book Genealogy Methods and Techniques: A Practical Guide to Research is now available to pre-order from some of the major bookstores, such as Amazon UK or if you want to be one of the first to get your hands on a copy, register your interest at my publishers, Crowood Press.
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.
'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.'
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.
Read about my writing journey here.
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.
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
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.





