The Complete Beginner's Guide to Genealogy, the Internet, and Your Genealogy Computer Program (Paperback)

by Karen Clifford (Author) "So much has been located, organized, inventoried, cataloged, shared on computer programs or online systems, microfilmed, photocopied, and alphabetized, that genealogy "research" is much more..." (more)
Key Phrases: Buried Place, Married Place, Family History Library (more...)

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal
As the title indicates, Clifford strives to cover all things genealogical in this fact-filled workbook. Heavily illustrated with charts, maps, reproducible forms, word definitions, and as-you-go assignments, her book assumes that the reader is beginning genealogy research in general while learning to use a genealogy computer program. But you don't have to have a genealogy program at hand to use this book successfully, for all readers can benefit from Clifford's objectives: to set goals, apply proper research skills, employ critical analysis, thoroughly document findings, and avoid "skipping" generations. Clifford (Becoming an Accredited Genealogist, Ancestry, 1998) offers straightforward discussions of terms, types of records, and major repositories of genealogy materials. For the various records and methods of investigation, she ties in suggestions for incorporating data into a genealogy program. Each chapter ends with brief assignments, URLs, and a bibliography. Her chapters on the Latter Day Saints' (LDS) Family History Library, local family history centers, and their various databases may provide insights to even experienced researchers. Two appendixes (on the Internet and reproducible forms) complete the book. Clifford's work compares to Emily Croom's Unpuzzling Your Past (Betterway, 1995) in its approach to genealogy basics but covers LDS resources in much greater depth. For a more thorough introduction to genealogy research on the Internet, however, readers might try Rhonda McClure's Complete Idiot's Guide to Online Genealogy (Alpha, 2000). Clifford is president of Genealogy Research Associates, Inc., whose web site is referred to throughout. Recommended for public libraries.DElaine M. Kuhn, Allen Cty. P.L., Ft. Wayne, IN
Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist
The proliferation of home computers and the accessibility of the Internet have virtually revolutionized the discipline of genealogical research. This indispensable guide provides a practical blueprint for sophisticated genealogical examinations. Combining traditional archival research methods with technologically enhanced techniques, the author offers tutelage, tips, and shortcuts designed to enable novice investigators to construct comprehensive family histories. The instructional format includes helpful assignments, activities, and checklists. This practical manual is an ideal resource for genealogical research in a new era. Margaret Flanagan
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

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Product Details

• Paperback: 376 pages
• Publisher: Genealogical Publishing Company; 1st edition (January 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0806316365
• ISBN-13: 978-0806316369
• Product Dimensions: 10.8 x 8.3 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.2 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 3.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #538,456 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An indispensable manual for modern genealogy, March 18, 2001

By	Midwest Book Review (Oregon, WI USA) - See all my reviews

Karen Clifford is a renowned professional genealogist and instructor who brings to bear her considerable expertise in The Complete Beginner's Guide To Genealogy, The Internet, And Your Genealogy Computer Program, an indispensable manual for modern genealogy designed for the beginner but replete with useful information and advice for even the most experienced and seasoned genealogist. This superbly presented instruction and reference book is an essential, core title for any personal, professional, academic, or genealogical society collection.

5 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

1.0 out of 5 stars Genealogy and geneaology but no internet, November 14, 2002

By A Customer

The title of this book is a bit deceptive. It doesn't focus much on the computer aspect of genealogy; instead it primarily sticks to traditional how-to material for beginning genealogists.Also, the computer related material is designed for the never-picked-up-a-mouse-before neophyte. If you have any computer experience at all, skip this book & get one on genealogy basics. You are better off exploring your software and the internet for yourself.