Question:
What Makes an Effective Query?
Effective Queries
Are you still looking for information on an ancestor that you just can't find? Why not try posting a query on a genealogy website for more information? Basically, a query is a posting on an online genealogy bulletin board in which you request information on a certain person. How you post the query is important, after all, you want an effective query in the hopes that someone on the board will be able to assist you with your search.
To post an effective query to a genealogy bulletin board you will want to be as specific as possible. What do you already know about the person? List everything that you know, important dates, locations, marital status and death status. If you don't know specifics, put in as much as possible, such as: lived in or around New York City.
An effective query would read something like this:
Looking for information on Joe NAMELESS, born in 1825, married to Patty SMITH, died perhaps in 1900 near Chicago.
You may not have much information, but you are as detailed as possible. Also note that you listed the surnames in all capitals. This allows other readers to quickly see the surnames in which you are searching. Do not put too many surnames in one query. This will just overwhelm a reader.
If you are interested in posting a query, do a search engine search for "Genealogy Query" to take you to a site in which you are able to post one. Perhaps someone will read your query and be of assistance to you.
Genealogy Frequently Asked Questions
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| Guru Spotlight |
| Heidi Splete |
