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Summarize
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(Summarize) |
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Keeping your query simple, specific and to the point will increase the likelihood that someone will read it, recognize similarities in their family, and respond. | Keeping your query simple, specific and to the point will increase the likelihood that someone will read it, recognize similarities in their family, and respond. | ||
=== Subject line === | === Subject line === | ||
An effective subject line is essential! Briefly summarize your query with who, where, when or any other specific information. Some examples: | An effective subject line is essential! Briefly summarize your query with who, where, when or any other specific information. Some examples: | ||
*Byron Bird, d. 1910, San Francisco, CA - need help finding probate | *Byron Bird, d. 1910, San Francisco, CA - need help finding probate | ||
*Hartrick family - Pullersdorf, Germany to Adams County, Illinois 1854 | *Hartrick family - Pullersdorf, Germany to Adams County, Illinois 1854 | ||
*Civil War Service Records for Nevada | *Civil War Service Records for Nevada | ||
"Need Help" or "Help Finding My Grandmother" does not communicate who, where, when, or any information that may lead you to an answer. | "Need Help" or "Help Finding My Grandmother" does not communicate who, where, when, or any information that may lead you to an answer. | ||
=== Message content === | |||
As simply as possible, share what you DO know and where you found it, or where you've looked. For example: | |||
*"I can find the family in the 1850 census in California, and the 1870 census in Illinois, but have been unable to locate them in 1860." | |||
*"My great grandmother's death certificate gives her birthplace as New York, but the 1900 census shows Germany, and the 1910 says New Jersey." | |||
=== Summarize your purpose === | |||
Be sure to summarize your message by stating what you hope to find. | |||