Brazilian Research: Getting Started

Back to Brazil Page ►

Getting started with your family history research isn't difficult at all. Just follow a simple 5-step Research Process:

 

Step 1: Identify what you know

To start your research first search family and home sources. Search for names as well as dates and places of important life events for your ancestors on varios records you have close to come: certificates, diaraies, journals, obituaries, etc. Talk with living relatives to learn additional information they might have on your ancestors. You may have an Aunt, grandparent, cousin, or other relative who has already gathered some family information. Organize your findings on pedigree charts and family group records. You can obtain blank pedigree charts and family group sheets here.

Step 2: Decide What You Want to Learn About Your Family

Select an specific ancestor from your pedigree chart or family group records for which you have some basic information and would like to learn more about. You may want to begin with an ancestor for whom you already know their name and surname as well as information about where and when they lived. Note that records for individuals are more easily accesible for individuals born before 1920, and may help in your selecion of an ancestor.

Once you have chosen a specific ancestor identify questions you want to answer about them. (Ex. Where was he/she born? Were was he/she married? Who were his/her parents?) Select one question at a time to help you focus your research. Prepare a research log to keep track of records you want to search and the additonal information you find.

Step 3: Select Records to Search