| Line 37: | Line 37: | ||
'''''Develop a Research Plan.''''' Genealogists next develop a research plan that outlines what they will do to find the information you want. Most plans consist of a prioritized list of the records the genealogist will search. Research plans can be written or verbal. Your genealogist may share the plan with you. | '''''Develop a Research Plan.''''' Genealogists next develop a research plan that outlines what they will do to find the information you want. Most plans consist of a prioritized list of the records the genealogist will search. Research plans can be written or verbal. Your genealogist may share the plan with you. | ||
'''''Conduct the Research.''''' As they follow their research plans, genealogists | '''''Conduct the Research.''''' As they follow their research plans, genealogists use online resources and visit libraries, courthouses, archives, cemeteries, and other places to search for the information. As they search, they may photocopy pertinent records or acquire official copies. | ||
'''''Analyze the Findings.''''' Genealogists regularly review their research and make conclusions about what they have found. They also compare their findings with other documents to confirm or disprove conclusions. | '''''Analyze the Findings.''''' Genealogists regularly review their research and make conclusions about what they have found. They also compare their findings with other documents to confirm or disprove conclusions. | ||
| Line 43: | Line 43: | ||
'''''Report the Findings.''''' Periodically, genealogists prepare reports about their research activities. The report should include photocopies or abstracts of important information. It may also include suggestions for continued research. | '''''Report the Findings.''''' Periodically, genealogists prepare reports about their research activities. The report should include photocopies or abstracts of important information. It may also include suggestions for continued research. | ||
'''''Prepare Forms.''''' | '''''Prepare Forms.''''' Genealogists can prepare forms such as pedigree charts, family group sheets, and applications to lineage societies. They can enter information into a genealogical computer program for you. | ||
'''''Share Results.''''' Genealogists can help you share the results of your research. A genealogist can contribute the findings to genealogical databases such as Family Tree or prepare articles or books. | '''''Share Results.''''' Genealogists can help you share the results of your research. A genealogist can contribute the findings to genealogical databases, such as, Family Tree or prepare articles or books. | ||
'''''Bill for Services.''''' Genealogists bill for their services at agreed-upon intervals. Bills should clearly identify the time spent and expenses incurred on the project to date. Bills are often included with reports. <br> | '''''Bill for Services.''''' Genealogists bill for their services at agreed-upon intervals. Bills should clearly identify the time spent and expenses incurred on the project to date. Bills are often included with reports. <br> | ||
edits