Learn what FamilySearch’s full-text search capability can do for you! This class will provide you with tips and tricks for making the most of this innovation in genealogical research. We’ll cover various ways to search, how to use wildcards and other tools, ways to filter your results, how to read and save images and transcriptions, and what to do with the information you find in the records.
In a dynamic and forward-looking genealogy webinar hosted by Legacy Family Tree Webinars, genealogist Julia Anderson introduced the transformative potential of FamilySearch’s Full-Text Search tool. Designed for both budding and seasoned researchers, this session demonstrated how cutting-edge technology is eliminating traditional research barriers, making it easier than ever to access, analyze, and attach historical records. With computer-aided indexing and OCR at its core, this tool is reshaping how genealogists engage with records from the 18th century to the early 20th century and beyond.
Key Takeaways from the Webinar:
Don’t Miss Out: Dive Deeper into the Webinar
For anyone serious about uncovering hidden ancestors and breaking through long-standing research brick walls, watching the full webinar is essential. Julia Anderson’s thorough demonstrations, real-life case studies, and advanced tips will equip genealogists with the tools needed to make meaningful discoveries. Access to this webinar is free thanks to FamilySearch sponsorship—no membership required.
Be sure to explore the free, comprehensive seven-page syllabus accompanying the session, filled with direct links, best practices, and further reading. This resource-rich guide complements the webinar and provides genealogists with everything they need to maximize Full-Text Search in their own family research.
Fam Search Labs is wonderful! I just sorted out a family that I and several others gave up on in the 1980s because we didn’t have access to all these records I can now see from home. (Thank goodness I saved all those old hand-written, PO mailed letters to use with Labs.)
Thanks for this intro how to use it. I have new things to try!
Wow!! This really explained the “full text search” I’ve been hearing so much about!! Thank you!! I’ve been hearing so much about it, but I didn’t understand how it would be helpful. After watching, I picked a random ancestor and bam! I found his naturalization papers within 5 minutes and learned exactly when he came to US and where he landed!
I could listen to Julia speak all day!!
Thanks again for this fabulous presentation!!!
I’ve known about this feature for a little while, but only tried it out once. After this webinar made things so much clearer, I spent several hours with it. Found an unknown brother to my wife’s gg-grandfather. Edward’s estate mentioned Guyler (the gg-grandfather) as a brother, and Jennie as his niece. We already knew Jennie was Hiram’s daughter from previous research, so that confirms Hiram as another brother. One step closer to breaking down the 30+ year brick wall of those brothers’ parents!
Fantastic thank you, have never used this before. Will be now, a great presentation.
Very nicely organized, with helpful examples. Look forward to trying it.
I have been dabbling with Full-Text awhile now (in fact realized I needed to better organize my storage due to the “fire-hose” effect of so many great results), and had watched another webinar somewhere, but today’s class was so very explanatory of the various ups & downs, and of course Geoff trying it live opened my eyes wide! The best new morsel? The source box.
This was so well put together, and followed the syllabus too. Thank you.
I really appreciated all the tips on how to search effectively. I am so grateful for FamilySearch developing this system and for the presenter giving us tips on its use.