The study of British Isles history, old handwriting, charting, accurately using compiled sources, in-depth analysis of surviving records, and historical understanding is critical to your research success. How much data you extract from the records, how carefully you study that information, and your level of understanding of the context of these facts dictates your research success. This research guide will give you some great resources and instruction helping you move forward on your road to successfully researching your family history.
About the Author: Holly T. Hansen: President and founder of Family History Expos, Inc., has been instrumental in helping thousands understand the principles, strategies, and sources they can use to trace their roots in today's ever-changing technological environment. Holly's titles include author, lecturer, editor and publisher. She has produced more than 100 unique syllabus and class handout books for Family History Expos attendees. She is a former editor of Everton's Genealogical Helper magazine, and editor of the 10th and 11th editions of The Handybook for Genealogists, with more than one million copies sold. She has also authored The Directory of North American Railroads, Trekking for Ancestors, and co-authored a series of 16 family history interview books entitled Celebrating and Capturing the Memories. Judith E. Wight, AG: Owner of Wight House Research. Accredited Genealogist specializing in Ireland (30+ years) and Scotland (10+ years). Writes extensively for genealogical periodicals. Popular teacher and lecturer at genealogical events. Worked 10 years as a British Reference consultant at the FHL. Also does research in the U.S. and Canada. Arlene H. Eakle, Ph.D.: President and founder of The Genealogical Institute, Inc., Dr. Eakle is a professional genealogist with more than 30 years experience in research, consulting, lecturing, and writing. An expert in tracing families from New York, Southern U.S., British Isles, Switzerland, and parts of Germany, she claims a 96% success rate. James L. Tanner: Is a retired attorney and business owner with over 33 years of experience in genealogical research. James was an intelligence officer during the Vietnam War, has a BA Degree in Spanish, a Masters Degree in Linguistics from the University of Utah, and a JD Degree in Law from Arizona State University. He has nearly 40 years experience as a trial attorney in Arizona with experience in both real estate and probate law among other areas of the law. He taught classes at the Mesa FamilySearch Library for 10 years. He is currently teaching from nine to eleven hours a week at the BYU FamilySearch Library.