How do I write an effective research query?
Genealogy is really just detective work. Clues can lead to more information. When asking a research question, please include as much of the following information as possible:
- Full name of the ancestor [First, middle and last name(s)] and/or name change
- Include, if a profile exists, the FamilySearch PID # (Personal ID #) located right under that person’s name and/or the URL link to the page in question
- Birth date, even if approximate, and place [as much as is known]
- Residence(s) in the US or other country of immigration
- When refereeing to a record include the name of the record, what scan and entry number you are refereeing to and a picture (if available) of the document
- One or two requests at a time allows
Whenever you add, edit, or delete information about an individual in your family tree, you should explain why you are making the change. This reasoning is intended to prevent improper changes and to direct other interested researchers to the sources that prove the information.
The above information enables the dedicated, knowledgeable volunteers in this community to help you effectively by coming up with good research suggestions. We love helping you find ancestors!
More detailed information at: How to Write Effective "Reason" Statement in the FamilySearch Family Tree • FamilySearch