How to Use Structured Learning to Build Confidence and Accuracy in Family History
Introduction: Why Take Genealogy Courses or Use Guides?
In the digital age, anyone can search for ancestors online—but only those who build their skills can do so effectively and accurately. That’s where structured learning comes in.
Whether you’re a beginner trying to understand census records or an advanced researcher seeking to solve complex brick walls, taking courses and using expert guides can:
Deepen your understanding of records
Teach you how to think like a historian
Help you avoid common mistakes
Connect you to a global genealogy community
This article explores where to find the best courses and guides, how to choose the right ones for your goals, and what kinds of resources are available at different skill levels.
1. The Value of Education in Genealogy
Just like any field—law, medicine, or history—genealogy has its own set of skills and methods. By studying it intentionally, you gain:
Efficiency: Know where and how to search
Accuracy: Interpret evidence with confidence
Perspective: Understand the historical context
Problem-solving tools: Tackle conflicting evidence and gaps
Genealogy education turns hobbyists into historians—and vague trees into trusted documentation.
2. Types of Learning Resources Available
There are many ways to learn genealogy. Here’s a breakdown of major formats:
a. Online Video Courses
Self-paced or scheduled classes
Typically include video lectures, downloadable slides, and exercises
Some are free, others are paid
Examples:
FamilySearch Learning Center
Ancestry Academy
Legacy Family Tree Webinars
Coursera (e.g., “Genealogy: Researching Your Family Tree”)
b. Formal Programs
Offer certificates or credentials
Taught by experienced genealogists or historians
Some include mentorship or peer feedback
Examples:
Boston University’s Genealogical Research Program
National Institute for Genealogical Studies
SLIG (Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy)
ProGen Study Group
c. Research Guides and eBooks
Written instructions on specific topics (e.g., military records, immigration)
Step-by-step advice with screenshots or templates
Often offered for free or low cost by societies, libraries, or genealogy bloggers
d. Podcasts and Webinars
Great for learning on the go
Usually topic-specific and hosted by experts
3. Learning by Skill Level
a. Beginner
Understanding family trees
Using the census
Exploring birth/marriage/death records
Introduction to DNA for genealogy
Recommended Resources:
FamilySearch Beginner Guides
Ancestry.com’s “Getting Started”
The National Archives UK – Beginner video series
b. Intermediate
Working with land records, probate, and newspapers
Understanding immigration patterns
Analyzing indirect evidence
Recommended Courses:
“Intermediate Genealogy” – American Ancestors
Legacy Webinars archive
BYU Independent Study (free online classes)
c. Advanced
Case study analysis
Genealogical proof standard
Working with foreign-language records
Publishing your genealogy
Recommended Programs:
Boston University (Certificate Program)
ProGen Study Group
Institute of Genealogy and Historical Research (IGHR)
4. Recommended Websites and Platforms
a. FamilySearch.org – Learning Center
Dozens of free videos and text lessons
Covers countries around the world
Great for beginners to intermediate users
b. Ancestry Academy
Video courses for members
Covers both basic and advanced topics
Includes tips on using their records effectively
c. Legacy Family Tree Webinars
Massive library of recorded webinars
Monthly live events (many free)
Paid membership unlocks full access
d. National Genealogical Society (NGS)
Offers online courses and publications
Their “American Genealogical Studies” program is highly respected
e. Coursera / EdX
Broader platforms, but occasionally offer genealogy/history courses
Include peer reviews and optional certificates
5. Print and Digital Guides Worth Owning
Here are some classic and new genealogy guides that are widely recommended:
a. The Researcher’s Guide to American Genealogy by Val D. Greenwood
Considered a must-have
Covers methodology, archives, and documentation
b. Evidence Explained by Elizabeth Shown Mills
Teaches you how to cite sources properly
Crucial for advanced genealogists
c. Professional Genealogy edited by Elizabeth Shown Mills
Designed for serious researchers or professionals
d. Genealogy Standards by the Board for Certification of Genealogists
Details the Genealogical Proof Standard
6. How to Choose the Right Course or Guide
Consider your goals:
Are you just starting? → Start with free or low-cost guides
Trying to solve a brick wall? → Look for topic-specific courses (e.g., “Southern U.S. records”)
Want to go pro? → Enroll in certification-based programs
Check:
The instructor’s background
Student reviews
Whether it includes practical exercises or assignments
Ongoing access to materials
7. Learning Through Genealogy Societies
Joining a genealogy society is a great way to learn and grow. Most offer:
Newsletters or journals
Local history workshops
Member-only resources
Regional expertise
Some notable societies:
National Genealogical Society (U.S.)
Federation of Genealogical Societies
Society of Genealogists (UK)
Association of Professional Genealogists
Many local or ethnic-specific groups (e.g., African American Genealogical Society, Irish Genealogical Research Society) also offer tailored resources.
8. Learning DNA for Genealogy
As DNA becomes more central to research, many courses now include genetic genealogy.
Start with:
“DNA Painter” tools tutorials
Blaine Bettinger’s books and courses (e.g., “The Family Tree Guide to DNA Testing and Genetic Genealogy”)
MyHeritage DNA Academy
Also check for webinars from:
International Society of Genetic Genealogy (ISOGG)
Legacy Webinars
RootsTech Conference archives
9. Practice-Based Learning: Case Studies and Assignments
Look for courses that include:
Real-world examples
Assignments with feedback
Opportunities to write research reports
This kind of active learning is far more effective than passive reading or watching videos.
Some courses even require you to:
Develop research logs
Correlate evidence
Cite sources according to professional standards
10. Keep Growing: Your Genealogy Education Never Ends
Even experts take new courses every year. Genealogy evolves as:
New records are digitized
DNA methods improve
Standards change
Software and tools are updated
Your continued learning ensures that your work remains accurate, ethical, and meaningful.
Conclusion: Learning Makes Your Research Stronger
Investing time in genealogy education—through courses and research guides—pays off in clarity, accuracy, and confidence. You’ll be able to:
Break through brick walls
Avoid embarrassing errors
Share well-documented stories with future generations
Start with the basics, then keep building your knowledge. Your ancestors deserve nothing less.