As an expert genetic genealogist and family historian, Janna Helshtein has witnessed firsthand the power and potential of MyHeritage in unraveling the mysteries of the past. Here she shares her chosen selection of user tips, useful for both traditional and DNA research
BRANCHING OUT IN TODAY’S FAMILY HISTORY WORLD
Family history can be an awe-inspiring adventure, leading us through newly discovered paths, breathtaking stories and old photos that give us goosebumps. However, very often when we embark on such a journey, we are so overwhelmed that it feels more like stumbling into a thick and dark forest.
One of the main platforms I use – both to search and to store my research clearly and methodically – is one that has increasingly gained prominence among genealogists and family history enthusiasts, namely MyHeritage.
As an expert genetic genealogist, I have witnessed firsthand the power and potential of MyHeritage in unraveling the mysteries of the past, with its vast collection of historical records, DNA matching capabilities, and intuitive family tree-building tools. There are many ways one can explore genealogical records and DNA on MyHeritage, and I am happy to share 26 tips I use for researching them both on MyHeritage.
1. Where to start?
Well, open an account: start with a free one, and familiarise yourself with the platform. This will ensure you have an easy journey as you extend your tree as wide and far as you can, while saving you time too.
What do you already know?
These introductory tips are useful pointers for those very new to family history.
MyHeritage’s family tree feature allows you to construct and maintain your family tree online.
Ask yourself:
• What do you know already? • What can you immediately add to your tree?
• What do the people around you know?
• Who can you ask?
Genealogical research begins with gathering information. Document your own information, such as birth date, marriage details, and locations. Talk to older relatives and collect information about your parents, grandparents, and other close relatives. Document what you know about each generation.
Every piece of information and evidence is important and might prove to be the missing piece that connects you to an unknown family member, so don’t skip what seems to be the small stuff. Together, these details will provide a solid foundation for building your family tree. By methodically adding these details to your family tree from the start, you will be saving yourself time repeating and re-searching for details in the future.
2. Plant & grow your online tree
MyHeritag
