Family historians spend a lot of time learning more about the sources they study to get the most from their investigations, but what about methods? To be the most effective researcher a combination of knowledge of sources and sound methodology is required. In this four-week course Dr Karen Cummings, author of Genealogy Methods and Techniques: A Practical Guide to Research, will guide you through some of the key principles of genealogy practice, enabling you to become more organised, get the most from your documents and your online searches and be clear what research you have completed and what needs to be verified.
Each one talk hour talk will focus on a different aspect of methodology and some of the tools you will encounter include research logs, family tree software, timelines, mind maps. You will develop your analytical critical thinking skills throughout.
Suitable for all levels of experience, from beginners to those with decades of experience wanting to check they are getting most from their research.
- 20% Discount for all Society of Genealogists Members
- Recordings available until 31 December 2026 for everyone who pre-books
Click here for information about our events. Contact events@sog.org.uk if you have any questions.
Programme details
| Getting organised in your research (avoid disappearing under a mountain of paperwork) | Online | 04/11/2026 | 10:00 - 11:00 | |
| Analyse the story so far (summaries, identifying gaps and next steps) | Online | 11/11/2026 | 10:00 - 11:00 | |
| Checking the foundations (tackling research problems) | Online | 18/11/2026 | 10:00 - 11:00 | |
| Effective online search strategies (is it even meant to be there?) | Online | 25/11/2026 | 10:00 - 11:00 |
About the Speaker
Dr Karen Cummings
Dr Karen Cummings is a professional genealogist and tutor and is the owner of online course provider, Pharos Tutors®. Karen's areas of speciality are genealogy methodology, report writing and DNA testing. She is the author of “Genealogy Methods and Techniques - A Practical Guide to Research”, published in 2026. Karen has qualifications in both genealogy and teaching: the Diploma in Genealogy (DipGen) from the Institute of Heraldic and Genealogical Studies (IHGS) and has a Postgraduate Certificate (PG Cert) in Educational Practice from the University of Essex. She is a full Member of the Association of Genealogists and Researchers in Archives (AGRA), the accrediting body for genealogists in England and Wales, has served on both AGRA's Council and Board of Assessors.
04/11/2026 - 25/11/2026
10:00 - 11:00
Online
4 Week Online Course on Wednesday mornings with Dr Karen Cummings, author of Genealogy Methods and Techniques: A Practical Guide to Research
Location
Online