As 2021 whimpers to an end, it's a good time to consider what we might do differently in 2022.

I'm not necessarily suggesting you should make resolutions. However it may be productive to consider mistakes we could avoid in the new year.

FamilySearch identified genealogy pitfalls they call 'rookie mistakes': 

1) Rookies search individuals

2) Rookies are inclined to be poor record keepers

3) Rookies can jump to conclusions which aren't supported by evidence

4) Rookies may assume an ancestor’s name has only one correct spelling

5) Rookies frequently have vague research goals

6) Rookie researchers jump between families too often

7) Rookies occasionally “start” their research on ancestors in the distant past

8) Rookies may assume no record of an event exists if not found in their first search

9) Rookies overlook hidden relatives and neighbors

10) Rookies avoid discussing contradictory evidence

11) Rookies don't think about sharing their research

12) Rookies don't sharpen the saw enough

13) Rookies have a tendency to expect too much and give up too early

If any flaws on the list sound familiar, take a look at the FamilySearch wiki. Click here to read about consequences to rookie mistakes, as well as to see tips on how to improve your approach.