Begin with FamilySearch
Create or sign in to your free account, then see how much of your family tree is already connected.
Open FamilySearchOne meaningful step at a time
Your family story
has a next chapter.
Whether you are opening FamilySearch for the first time or solving a difficult research question, find a clear next step and someone who can help.
No experience neededFree, patient, one-on-one help
GLStart withWhat you know
•••DiscoverWho came before
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Trusted starting points
What would you like help with?
Choose the starting point that best describes what you would like to do. If you are unsure, send a Personal Help request and a ward consultant will guide you.
15 trusted starting points
FamilySearch 101 | Episode 1
Watch this introductory RootsTech episode for a friendly overview of FamilySearch and how to begin exploring your family history.
Watch Episode 1Build and correct your tree
Add relatives, update names and dates, connect sources, and learn how to handle duplicate records.
Explore Tree helpBranch by Branch: A Beginner’s Guide to Growing the FamilySearch Tree
Watch this RootsTech class for beginner-friendly guidance on adding relatives and growing your FamilySearch Family Tree one branch at a time.
Watch the classFind historical records
Search census, birth, marriage, death, immigration, military, and other historical collections.
Search recordsFamilySearch Full-Text Search – Your Golden Path to Ancestral Discovery
Learn how FamilySearch uses AI-assisted handwriting recognition to help you search names, places, and phrases within digitized historical records—even when those records have not been traditionally indexed.
Watch the classPreserve stories and memories
Save family photos, documents, written stories, and audio recordings so they are not lost.
Open Memories helpFamilySearch 101 | Episode 2
Watch how to add photos, documents, and stories to FamilySearch Memories and connect them to the appropriate people in your Family Tree.
Watch Episode 2Use Ordinances Ready
Let FamilySearch help you find available family names for your next temple visit.
Learn how to beginSchedule a temple appointment
Choose a temple, ordinance, date, and available time, then review and confirm your reservation.
Schedule a visitReview names in Get Involved
Help make historical records searchable by reviewing names identified with computer assistance.
Start reviewingGet Involved: Review Names with AI Assistance
For members familiar with indexing, Get Involved offers a newer way to help make records searchable: computer-assisted tools identify possible names, and volunteers verify or correct the results.
Watch the Get Involved videoUse FamilySearch on your phone
Learn what you can do with the Family Tree, Memories, and Get Involved mobile apps.
See app featuresGet specialized FamilySearch support
Use official support when an account, record, or technical question needs additional assistance.
Contact supportAsk a ward consultant
Choose a Cedar Hills ward consultant for friendly, one-on-one help with your family history or temple goal.
Choose a consultantFrequently asked
You are not the only one wondering.
These are good questions to bring to a consultant. You never need to know the right terminology before asking for help.
I have a different questionSign in to FamilySearch and look at the first four generations of your tree. Check names, relationships, and basic dates. A ward consultant can sit with you and help you choose one small, meaningful next step.
No. Help can be paced to your comfort level and can be given in person, by phone, or by video. You can bring a laptop, tablet, or phone—or simply bring the family information you already have.
Review the attached sources and change history before editing or merging. Add a clear reason statement for your change. If the situation is complicated, ask a consultant to review it with you first.
Yes. FamilySearch protects records for living people. In most cases, only the person who entered a living record can see it. Avoid placing private or sensitive information in public memories.
You can preserve photos, documents, written stories, and audio recordings. Add a title, date, place, and description so future family members understand why each memory matters.
Start with Ordinances Ready or review an ancestor in your tree whose information is complete and well sourced. FamilySearch will show the ordinance status and guide you through requesting or sharing the name.
Personal help
Let’s take the next step together.
Ward help is friendly, free, and shaped around your goal. Choose what you need, select a support person, and send one simple request.
Geary LewisWard Temple & Family History Leader
Erika BrooksWard Temple & Family History Consultant
Ann ShettlesWard Temple & Family History Consultant
David RichmondWard Temple & Family History Consultant
Fred RichardWard Temple & Family History Consultant