Don’t be put off by the size of the task at  hand.

Don’t be put off by the  amount of paperwork there is to look  through.

Staff at the records are very helpful. Please be understanding they have probably answered your question 50 times that day, but it is the first time for you.

You will need to understand the jargon.

So if today's the day you start. Begin at the beginning of your research. Today and work backwards.

Make a note of all your generations. If you have a computer then put it straight into a file and into your Genealogy folder.

Don’t assume those with the same name are related.

Your first task is to find your oldest living relative and arrange to visit them and sit down together. Ask loads of questions and make loads of notes.

Have they any stories to tell you, what about photos, what memorabilia do they have, what work did they do, any photo albums, old stories, old photos, other family names, do not joke or doubt what you are told, ask if anyone else has asked similar questions.

Ask the rest of your family - has anyone said they are looking into the family ancestors. This can save you time researching the same  data.

Try and keep the data under family names, places, years, etc

Photos can be scanned or digital photos taken of old photos.