Genealogy, Explained.
Clear, step-by-step guides to help you trace your family history — from your first search to your biggest breakthrough.
Where to Start
New to genealogy? Here are the three most essential guides to kickstart your journey.
Free Research Tools
Calculators and converters to help your analysis.
Resource Hubs
Deep dive into specific topics.
Hi, I'm Marc McDermott
I'm an investigative genetic genealogist and the guy behind Genealogy Explained.
I started this site years ago as a way to document my own genealogy research and share what I was learning along the way. I never expected it would help so many people navigate their own family history journeys.
My focus is simple: taking complex family history concepts and making them easy to understand. Whether you're just getting started or hitting a brick wall, you'll find clear explanations here to help you make real progress with your research.
More about me →Shop Genealogy Explained
In-depth guides to accelerate your research.
Tracing Our Past
A beginner's guide to building your family tree.
Census Gold
Hidden genealogy clues in every column.
Generational Journeys
170 interview questions to unlock your family's past.
Death Records Cheat Sheet
Find what others miss.
Biological Roots Blueprint
Finding your unknown parentage.