Promo: Searching your ancestral past? Learn how the Internet can help you find your roots...next...

Genealogical research can be quite time consuming, but thanks to the Internet, your search may be shortened.

Your best place to start or continue your search of the past is Family Tree Maker Online at www.familytreemaker.com. From here you can select "Genealogy How-To" and scroll down to the 1,200-page Genealogy "How-To" Guide.

The Guide walks you through step-by-step. First, how to collect information from your family (if you haven't already). Second, how to get all the information organized. Third, how to find the missing pieces of family information that will always come up. For example, if you needed birthplace information, this site suggests you check vital, church, bible, military and census records, as well as newspapers and the International Genealogical Index.

Under the How-To steps is an excellent Reference Tools section. The Directory gives you information at the county, state, national and international levels, plus information specifically categorized by ethnicity and religion.

Finally, try the site's acclaimed "Internet Family Finder." Put in a name and see what information comes up.

So, whether you are just curious about your past or seriously searching for your roots, don't forget to check the Internet.

From age 6 to 96 and beyond, there is something on the Internet for everyone. I'm Jack Nelson, The Internet Tutor.