Sharing your genealogical research online is enables you to connect with others who share your ancestry. Read on to learn how to create an online family tree.

• Genealogical research is a painstaking process of building on small bits of information to find more information. Each descendant holds a different piece of the puzzle. If you collaborate with others as you research, you can pool your knowledge and make progress more quickly.

• While not necessary, it can be helpful to do some research before beginning your online family tree.

1. List as many relatives as you can, noting dates and places of birth, marriages, and death.
2. Genealogical software can help you organize your information.
3. The Social Security Death Index can help supply missing information for deceased relatives.
4. Interview older family members to assemble as much information as you can.

(Creative Commons photo by [http://www.flickr.com/photos/herry/3228640890/sizes/m/ Wolfiewolfe)

• There are a number of free sites you can use to host your information. If you've used software to develop your initial family tree, a link to an online site may make transferring the information simple. If your package doesn't include a website, or if your genealogical research is organized manually, you might want to explore some of these sites that offer free online family tree hosting:
  • Ancestry.com: Online Family Tree Login
  • Tribal Pages: Free Family Tree
  • My Heritage: Online Family Tree
  • Geni: Free Family Tree
  • Family Tree Guide: Your Free Online Family Tree

1. Look for a site that can import and export GEDCOM files. This will make transferring your data simple, in case you want to change your host, or exchange files with a relative.

2. You can keep your information private, share access with specific people, or have your information be public.

3. Add photos and scanned in original documents to personalize your tree.

• By placing your tree online, you've created a permanent copy of your research. If you enable other genealogical researchers to access your information, you may meet new relatives who can help you on your journey to discover your family's story.

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