All of us need to ask questions when we’re doing our genealogy research. Whether you’re talking with a librarian, a courthouse clerk, or a cousin, there are some strategies you can use to get your questions answered.
Amy Johnson Crow on her blog gives some hints and tips on the correct way to phrase and ask questions. She begins by saying you should actually ask a question.
“Actually Ask a Question
“I’m trying to find Joseph Dickinson.” Ok, that’s nice, but what specifically are you trying to find? His birthplace? When he was born? When and where he died? His parents?
Pretend you’re on Jeopardy and phrase it in the form of a question.
Where was Joseph Dickinson born?
It’s easier (and more productive) for the other person to answer when there’s actually a question.”
To read Amy’s complete blog post, please click here. And while you are on the page, be sure to click on the link for questions to ask a librarian when you are researching at a library.
Good luck!