Hello, my name is Annette Burke Lyttle and I am the coordinator of the Best Practices Special Interest Group. Pat Adams is the SIG'S co-coordinator. We meet on Zoom the third Monday of the month at 1:00 p.m. If you have a question about the SIG, or would like to attend the next meeting, send an email to me –– click HERE –– and I will respond as quickly as I can.

This SIG focuses on learning and using the best research practices in our genealogy work. Best practices can make our research more efficient and effective, and can help us keep from making mistakes about the identities and relationships of our ancestors. We don't want to accidentally attach the wrong person to our family tree and end up researching folks who are not our ancestors. This SIG uses a combination of presentations, guided study, and discussion.

In 2025, we are focusing on how to get the most out of resources for online research. Members will also work on a research project of their own throughout the year and report on their progress in our November and December sessions.

You must be a member of The Villages Genealogical Society to participate in our meetings.

Zoom Meeting Schedule

MEETING DATE	TOPIC
20 Jan 2025	Review of the Research Process
17 Feb 2025	Newspapers
17 Mar 2025	Probate Records
21 Apr 2025	Directories and Local Histories
19 May 2025	Vital Records, Census Records, and Substitutes
16 Jun 2025	Federal and County Land Records
21 Jul 2025	Church and Cemetery Records
18 Aug 2025	Court Records
15 Sep 2025	Military Records
20 Oct 2025	Immigration & Naturalization
17 Nov 2025	Seminar on Records
15 Dec 2025	Sharing Projects

Helpful Information on the Web

• Guide for Links in this Chart (pdf)	• Evidence Explained
• BCG: "Ten Minute Methodology" Series	• FamilySearch Research Wiki
• BCG Webinar Series	• BCG OnBoard Articles