As a family historian, you will ask for information from other researchers who may be tracing the same family lines. Queries may be published in magazines, genealogical society publications, or online mail lists or forums. Writing a concise short paragraph that clearly defines your question will help readers understand what you want. Follow the hints and use the Query Abbreviations to write an effective query.

Not sure how to write a good query? View an example and read some helpful hints for Writing a Query below.

Subj: Allen Smith of Barren Co KY, 1821-abt 1857

Researching Allen Smith, b 1821 VA, mov to Barren Co KY bef 1850, m Susan Carter.
dpl Metcalfe Co KY abt 1857. Bro of Geo. W. Smith, Civil War veteran. Will share
GEDCOM. Email [email protected].

Each query should ask a specific question or questions about one particular individual. Clearly state your question right at the start. For example: “Seek bpl/d/m of Allen Smith…” Sometimes you might want to ask a question about a number of people; for example, a husband and wife. If this can be done simply, without causing confusion, it is acceptable. However, if there is no obvious connection between these individuals or if the query becomes too complicated, then submit a separate query for each individual.

Subject lines in email queries and on message boards should be short and to the point. Surnames, place names, and dates are all that is necessary. Do not include unnecessary text. More complete details can be provided in the body of the message.

Avoid beginning sentences with pronouns; this can cause confusion especially when a number of individuals have been mentioned and it is unclear which one you’re referencing. By using actual names to begin sentences, you can avoid ambiguities.

If you want to use accepted abbreviations for your query, consult the list of Query Abbreviations below.

Any information that is not directly related to your query should not be included. It is often tempting to include some of the interesting facts you have discovered about your subjects and to explain your relationship to them, but remember—your goal is to write a query that can be read quickly and easily, and to get a result. You can best achieve this by keeping it clear, specific, simple, and concise.