Save Time With a Research Plan

A research plan is a tool used by genealogists to map out the next steps needed when working to solve a research question or achieve a research goal.

Most of us like to jump into the research and look for anything and everything we can find. This is especially true nowadays with so many useful records available online.

But this approach isn’t the most effective, nor does it lend to the efficient use of our time.

The solution? A carefully crafted research plan.

But Julie, how does this save me time?

It’s simple, really.

Because you have carefully decided what resources you need to look for in order to answer your research question, you will focus only on those items. This will keep you from wandering around aimlessly and going down rabbit holes that will likely take you further away from your research goal, thus leading to more productive research.

Another time-saver? You’ll also avoid heading down the same path more than once (or twice, or three times, or, well, you get the picture).

Wandering around, falling down rabbit holes, and traveling the same path multiple times were the biggest problems I faced when I first started doing genealogy research many years ago. And it continued for a good few years until I realized that I needed to focus my efforts (this really hit me when I discovered I had purchased the same expensive death record twice!).

Enter the research plan.

When I started using this wonderful tool (along with a research log), I saved so much time just simply not doing the same research over and over again! These days, I don’t work on a project without a plan.

With my plan in hand I always feel organized and can pick up where I left off, even months later, without spending time getting reacquainted with the project. Additionally, I find that I can accomplish more during my research sessions—I’m so focused and I always feel like I’m making progress.

Do you see the potential of a research plan and the benefits it can bring? Before you say no, just remember this: A goal with out a plan is just a wish.


Your action item, should you choose to accept it, is to join the research planning challenge. Each day you’ll receive a short video lesson and an activity that will help you create an actionable research plan. Join the wait list to be notified when the next challenge opens up.

P.S. Research planning is one of my go-to strategies for problem solving. For more strategies, download my free guide.

© Julie Tarr. This article was first published at Genealogy In Action; appearance of this article elsewhere, without my permission, violates copyright.