Your Guide to Genealogy Certification: What It Is and How to Get Started

Your Guide to Genealogy Certification: What It Is and How to Get Started

This guide will explain what genealogy certification entails and show you how to leverage FamilySearch.org as a powerful tool to begin your journey towards professional recognition.

Genealogy certification is a formal credential awarded by independent accrediting bodies, signifying a high level of professional competence, ethical conduct, and expertise in genealogical research. It demonstrates mastery of research methodology, record analysis, and report writing, requiring a rigorous portfolio of work and often examinations. While FamilySearch.org does not offer certification directly, it provides an unparalleled platform and a wealth of resources essential for developing the skills and experience needed to pursue such a credential.

How FamilySearch.org Helps You Get Started

Follow these steps on FamilySearch.org to build the foundational skills and knowledge necessary for genealogy certification:

1. Understand Fundamental Research Principles with the Learning Center.
   Begin by solidifying your understanding of genealogical research basics. FamilySearch offers numerous free courses that cover essential methodology.

   Action: Navigate to FamilySearch.org, click on Activities in the top menu, then select Learning Center. Explore courses on topics like "Beginning Research," "Record Types," and "Analyzing Evidence" to establish a strong theoretical foundation.

2. Dive Deep with the Research Wiki.
   The FamilySearch Research Wiki is an invaluable resource for understanding records, locations, and research strategies globally. Certification requires in-depth knowledge of specific regions and record sets.

   Action: From FamilySearch.org, click on Search in the top menu, then select Research Wiki. Use the search bar to find guides for the specific countries, states, or counties where your ancestors lived, learning about available records and research best practices for those areas.

3. Practice and Document Your Work in the Family Tree.
   Certification requires practical application and meticulous documentation. Use the FamilySearch Family Tree to apply what you learn and develop strong research habits.

   Action: Go to FamilySearch.org and click on Family Tree. Actively contribute by adding accurate sources, correcting errors, and writing detailed notes for your ancestors. Focus on attaching strong evidence to justify your conclusions, which is a critical skill for building a certification portfolio.

4. Engage with Advanced Learning and Webinars.
   FamilySearch regularly hosts webinars and shares content that delves into more complex genealogical challenges and advanced research techniques. These resources can expose you to expert-level problem-solving.

   Action: Click on Get Help in the top menu, then select Webinars. Look for presentations on advanced methodology, difficult research problems, or specific record types that challenge your current understanding. You can also search the Help Center for articles on specific advanced topics.

5. Connect with the Genealogy Community.
   Learning from others and seeking advice is crucial on your certification journey. FamilySearch provides avenues to connect with experienced researchers.

   Action: Under Get Help, explore the Community section or the Help Center's forums. While direct mentorship for certification might come from external societies, engaging in discussions and asking questions within the FamilySearch community can provide insights and support as you develop your skills and understanding of genealogical standards.