| Related Searches: Having a plan to create your family tree can help streamline the process. There is a lot of information to collect, and knowing where to start and how you will continue through the process is a great way to begin. Difficulty:Moderately Easy Instructions 1Determine what your tree will encompass. How many generations back do you want to go? In addition, do you want to include several families, such as you mother's side and father's side, or do you just want it to focus on only one side? Is your goal to trace back to one specific relative? 2Understand what kind of information you will begin obtaining. Create a list of people to begin with. It is best to start with those the closest relative, such as your mother or father, and work your way back. Also, make a list about where you will go to get this information, and prioritize the list. Will you start at a family member's home or the library, or do you need to visit a security deposit box? 3Gather the materials you intend to use. There are several resources online where you can download forms to help with the whole process of creating a family tree, not just the beginning. Try searching online for 'family tree forms," and choose from the results. Print the forms, and organize them in a binder or folder. You can also use other materials like index cards, notebooks, a tape recorder and a video camera--use whatever you are most comfortable with, knowing you will have to go back and reference information throughout the process. 4Develop a checklist of the family members you wish to speak with or research as well as the information you would like to gather about these relatives. Try to keep this information all in one place so it is easy to reference and to figure out what you have missed or what else you need to accomplish. ReferencesMake My Family Tree: How to Make a Family TreeBBC: Before You Start Your Family TreeResourcesAncestryMy HeritagePhoto Credit family tree image by Judy Ben Joud from FotoliaRead Next:
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