Reviews

1. 

   Peggy Sorrell – November 29, 2017

   As a participant in the first Research Like a Pro study group, I learned much about the research process. The assignments were meaningful and guided me to learn new skills. I found the collaboration with other study group members enlightening, both in their feedback, but also in seeing how they approached the same assignment, often with different results. Diana and Nicole were very interested in each individual and their project, and offered insightful and helpful suggestions. I would recommend this class to anyone who is a “newbee” or “seasoned” researcher — there is something to be learned by all!

2. 

   Kaye Shelley – November 30, 2017

   I just completed my Research Like A Pro group session and I would highly recommend it to anyone who has a project that needs to be tackled. It would have taken me a long time to get around to completing my project had it not been for the group experience with Diana and Nicole. I learned how to define my objective and work on it regularly, where to look for sources, the value of locality searches, and to effectively use my time by implementing a research log. (I’m now a research log convert!) When I had questions, Diana was there for clarification. Collaborating with others in the group was amazing, and helped me see there are many ways to approach an objective. By having homework assignments, I immediately put into practice the skills I learned; learning by doing works for me. Thanks Diana and Nicole for this valuable experience. One of my greatest personal discoveries is I can do things I felt I didn’t have the skill level to do.

3. 

   Mary Beth Mueller – December 1, 2017

   I wanted to be more efficient in writing up my research but not willing at this point to take a longer course. When you read Diana’s blog you will see the quality of her writing and she is a great teacher too. I’ve learned more than I realized and going forward I have a process to help me research and write up my finding. The class is fun and you learn a lot.

4. 

   Sherri Hessick – December 1, 2017

   I highly recommend the Research Like a Pro Study Group to anyone who wants to develop or to improve an organized research process. We come away from each session with homework assignments relevant to our own research project. Diana provides real-life examples of the work she asks of us and we are expected to provide feedback to other members of the study group. Seeing how others interpret the assignments to fit their research projects is extremely valuable. I must admit that I was not excited about doing one or two of the assigments, but when I finished them I saw how valuable that step was to the successful completion of my project. This class is well worth the time and effort, and you will be amazed at the progress you will make on your personal research project at the end.

5. 

   Rondie Yancey – December 4, 2017

   I solved a long-standing family mystery using the research methods Diane provided. I certainly became a research log enthusiast when I saw how much using the log helped me with this solution. Each lesson demonstrated how much more efficient and effective my research could be, and I would recommend this class to anyone who seriously wants to improve their skills. I have been doing genealogy for over 20 years, but this class helped me on to a new level

6. 

   Amy Urman – March 22, 2018

   The instructor and small class size make learning easy. I took this course to brush up on my report writing skills. Diana and Nicole are very encouraging I felt like a weight being lifted off my shoulders- that would be the weight of self doubt. I feel much more assured of myself and my skills. Diana shares her research techniques and thought processes. She provides wonderful examples that are easy to follow along. Her lessons and reading assignments provide guidance to make researching faster and easier. I enjoyed seeing the assignments of others taking the class. It was interesting to see what they were researching, how they were researching, and what their outcome was at the end of the class. Diana and Nicole make an outstanding team and I would recommend taking the class to anyone who wishes to better their research and writing skills.

7. 

   Melody Daisson – March 24, 2018

   I really enjoyed this class. I learned the value of timeline analysis, research planning, and research planning. I liked researching with a plan, and I successfully met my research objective. I enjoyed sharing ideas about research with Diana, Nicole, & other group participants. I took the study group while planning a wedding and I felt very satisfied that I was able to continue working on my research during a very busy time of life. I highly recommend this class to anyone.

8. 

   Donna Martin – June 18, 2018

   The Research Like a Pro class exceeds expectations. I came into the class with some basic research skills and very poor methodology. I finished the class with some new research skills and a solid framework for planning, documenting, reporting, and organizing my genealogical research. Diana Elder and her daughter, Nicole Dyer, are both knowledgeable and supportive, promoting an atmosphere of congeniality and collegiality. I learned so much from them, but the design of the class also allowed me to learn a lot from others participating in the class. If you are looking for an economical way to improve your genealogical skills, Research Like a Pro is money and time well spent.

9. 

   Sandi Hartvigsen – June 18, 2018

   The title of this study group is Research Like A Pro. At the end of the study group you definitely feel you can research like a pro. Diana and Nicole take you through the process of tackling one of your own research questions. It goes through the research process in a clear and logical manner. Feedback from other study group participants was very positive and helpful. I have a good start on tackling a difficult research project of finding a maiden name. I feel more confident in my ability as a researcher and writing a research report. I would highly recommend this class to anyone who has a passion for genealogy.

10. 

    DeAnn Ellingson – June 18, 2018

    This study group session has been amazing. Great knowledge was gained about organization and productivity as I followed Diana Elder’s instructions, used her templates, and completed the required homework. Working with others in the session, I also learned from them too. Now that the session is over, I hope as I use Diana’s ideas shared in our study group: making a locality guide, creating an ancestor timeline, writing down background information, using a research log complete with citations, choosing five sources to use for a research project, and writing as I go, that they will become automatic for me.

11. 

    Michelle Mickelson – June 19, 2018

    Diana is a knowledgeable professional with the heart of a teacher. With my former limited experience, I have now gained a solid foundation through hands on research and detailed encouragement in methodology, understanding and organization. She thoroughly covers all the bases and quickly responds to questions or concerns. I learned how to find clues for those elusive relatives and through good writing principles and expert tips, I can share my discoveries in a clear and concise way. My frustration from online trees transformed into useful navigation of those very sites! Diana and Nicole together, create a fun and positive environment where everybody learns. Even the experts in our class learned new information and improved upon their skills! I recommend this class to everyone who cares to do genealogy RIGHT!

12. 

    Alison Greve-Prongay – December 14, 2018

    If you are hitting a brick wall in your genealogy you must take the course “Research Like a Pro”. Diana and Nicole are a mother and daughter team who will teach you. I have taken a few other classes in genealogy but this class was the best class I have ever taken. This class will help to break those brick walls down. The best session that we all loved in class and so will you is the “Locality.” Not that I didn’t enjoy the other classes but this one it appeared that everyone enjoyed working on it. I am sure you will also enjoy that class as much as I did. If you are on the fence about taking this course please do not hesitate and just take it. I just think this course is worth it. What you come away with is the knowledge that you will get those brick walls down. You also might figure out you will have to change your objective on how to achieve that goal of yours. The important thing is you have the confidence to complete those brick walls because now you have the knowledge on how to remove the brick walls. You also will have two wonderful, kind teachers that will help you to achieve your goal. Thank you ever so much Diana & Nicole for all of your help.

13. 

    Lisa Fair – January 2, 2019

    This class was wonderful. I do a lot of searching for my relatives, this class teaches you how to research your relatives and move forward in building your family’s history. Each session focuses on a step in the research process. It brings focus and some discipline into the research that I really needed. In my case, I did not find the answers I was looking for, but, I have discovered several additional items to research that hopefully will lead to solving my objective.

    I’ve taken other online genealogy courses, this was by far the best combination of online, homework and in-person. I really enjoyed the discussions of each topic, the interaction between Diane, Nicole and the other class members was really helpful. I will definitely continue to use the Research Like A Pro process to work on those brick walls! This class was well worth the money.

14. 

    Simona MacAngus – February 5, 2019

    I’m thinking the study group may reveal to me whether I have the discipline to rework myself and my haphazard research practices towards obtaining certification as a genealogist. At almost 76 I’d have to hurry and really do have bad habits as a document gatherer rather than an organizer, compiler and writer-upper. I do have a graduate degree (MBA, specialty in finance/real estate) so had the oomph & tenacity once upon a time.

15. 

    Bonnie Andersen – June 17, 2019

    Diana and Nicole are true teachers! This course has been very worthwhile. I have learned the methodology of a professional researcher. Reviewing the work of others has also been enlightening. It has broadened my thought process and has opened up my mind to new ways of research. Before I started this process, a research log, source citations and locality guides were seldom something I used. But now, they are indispensable! Thank you to Diana and Nicole for your kindness and encouragement.

16. 

    Alice Childs – June 19, 2019

    The Research Like a Pro study group was such a valuable experience for me. I am currently pursuing accreditation, and participating in this group helped me gain knowledge and confidence in my skills as a researcher. I had previously purchased the Research Like a Pro book and had been working on becoming a better researcher on my own, but being guided by Diana one step at a time and receiving feedback from Diana, Nicole, and the other members of the group really helped me learn much faster. As I look back over my assignments I am excited about what I have learned and the progress I have made. My completed report has given me such a sense of accomplishment. Thank you Diana and Nicole for your teaching and mentoring. I recommend this course to anyone who would like to develop professional research skills.

17. 

    Cheri Weakley – June 23, 2019

    My family history research goal for 2019 was to learn how to use a research log. A Google search revealed the Family Locket website. Learning about Diana & Nicole, reading the digital book, and listening to their podcasts convinced me I found an amazing logical step-by-step research method, so I signed up for the study group. Diana’s lessons, the live study group sessions, and peer feedback on homework assignments enriched everyone. Diana & Nichole’s love of teaching shines throughout this course. This is the best 16 week research course. Everyone interested in genealogy should take Research Like a Pro.

18. 

    Margie Beldin – June 25, 2019

    I had been looking for something to help me learn the proper way to research culminating in a research report. I knew that name gathering was not the proper way to do genealogy and I had been doing that long enough. I was disappointed when Paula Stuart Warren no longer taught Intermediate Research at SLIG but luckily a friend told me about the Research Like a Pro course. I had only recently learned about the podcasts and was hooked, listening to them over and over. So, I had a feeling the course was what I was looking for. I decided to jump in and do the study course so that I would be accountable for my assignments and work. This was a great way to learn proper genealogical research. I liked the pace. SLIG was too much info in too little time, but RLP allowed breathing room and time to think while getting the assignments done. Diana and Nicole are very patient and willing to help; the class participants were also great, giving wonderful feedback and never once making me feel that I had done something wrong or inadequate. It was also a challenge to critique others because sometimes I didn’t think I knew enough to say anything, but, surprise, I had learned and felt confident in commenting on others’ work. I am soooo glad I took this course and hope that I can continue growing and learning because of this wonderful foundation. I still listen to the podcasts over and over (while walking my dogs each morning). I will miss the biweekly meetings but look forward to the Office Hours to be able to ask questions and get answers. Thanks for a wonderful 15 weeks!

19. 

    Julie Gontarek – May 3, 2020

    I just loved being a part of this course. I learned so much about the correct way to do research. I loved having regular assignments that kept me motivated as well as being a part of the online sessions. I will be using what i have learned in this class going forward – especially the general idea to have an objective and work towards that objective with a detailed plan. What i learned about locality research, research logs and citations was amazing as well. Thanks to Diana and Nicole for such a wonderful course!

20. 

    Payton James-Amberg – May 8, 2020

    I highly recommend the RLP study group course. I had previously bought the book, and attempted the method with some success; however, l ran out of steam somewhere around learning about source citations. Having a class structure, and accountability was helpful. Having the instructors, and our class mentors, to ask questions of and receive feedback from, was key to getting through the points that I knew were important for quality research, but were complicated and intimidating. I also learned a lot from reviewing classmates’ work. Our study group was occurring just as the pandemic hit, and I was unable to do any research outside my house. Making a research plan under challenging conditions was critical. I was able to quickly focus on what I COULD do now, and put other ideas in my future research plans, and still make good progress because I was focused. Don’t hesitate to sign up for this class. I feel that it was a very good investment in my education, and fun! I may do it again!

21. 

    Susan L Morrison – May 8, 2020

    This was a great course. I have listened to Diana and Nicole for about a year. A few months in I purchased their book and read it thoroughly. Then I started at the beginning and tried to go through the book on my own. This didn’t work for me. I needed more structure and accountability in my research. I also had questions that came up for me right away, and without the class I had no one to ask. The beauty of the course was that instantly I was in touch with like-minded people. Fellow students provided great support and feedback. I really appreciated the mentor sessions. All of the mentors were so great and gave me very helpful answers to my questions. I especially want to compliment my own mentor, Heather Robb ,who was so patient with me in my ignorance of Google Sheets and Docs! Thanks, Heather, I couldn’t have done this without you! And thank you to Diana and Nicole who managed through Covid 19 and even earthquakes. I don’t know how you two do so much, but it’s very inspirational. I will be telling my genealogy friends all about this great class.

22. 

    Deb Levinson – May 9, 2020

    This study group was fantastic – a must take course. After several years of chasing shiny little objects, collecting documents, wasting time and showing very little progress, this course provided me with the tools, processes and knowledge needed to develop and write a well thought out research project and actually have an answer to the question that I was asking. This “must take” course uses a multi-prong approach with lessons, webinars, interactive group sessions, member feedback from fellow study group members, mentors and instructors. Thank you Diana, Nicole, mentors and fellow course members for all of your suggestions and support, especially during this time of the COVID-19 pandemic. Well, I’m off to organizing my work, being more productive, fulfilling my genealogy education goals and developing my next genealogy research project. Thank you again!!!

23. 

    Stacy Ryan – May 11, 2020

    Participating in this Study Group was an amazing experience! Over the course of several weeks I learned how to use a variety of strategies and tools that taught me how to be more efficient, focused, and productive in my genealogical research. Diana, Nicole, and the Mentors are dedicated to helping others become better genealogists, and it’s fun to see what other study group members are working on and learn from each other. I believe anyone who puts in the work to complete the assignments will take their skills to a new level…regardless of where they begin. To say that my eyes have been opened to approaching genealogical research in a whole new way would be an understatement, and I HIGHLY recommend this program to anyone!

24. 

    Candy Risher – April 30, 2021

    I really cannot recommend this course enough if you want to take your research to the next level! Diana and Nicole do an excellent job of bringing the Research Like a Pro content to life, answering questions, and providing additional relevant content to dive even deeper than the book can. The addition of cutting-edge tools and techniques will help untangle even the most gnarly research problems. But the real benefit of this course is having access to peers who are just as passionate about their research as you are willing to take time to look at your work and make suggestions and give feedback. The community that is built through participation in this course is invaluable in a pursuit that is so often solitary.

25. 

    Diane Minor – May 1, 2021

    Loved this study group! Diana and Nicole are very organized and the class ran very smoothly. The research tools and process that they layed out for the group were very effective. I have already started to incorporate their ways into my process. I liked the peer review process as well. The mentor and small group meetings for asking questions was very helpful also. Definitely recommend this process and study group experience.

26. 

    Erin Edwards – May 1, 2021

    This class is exactly what I needed! Although I have been doing genealogy on my own family for a long time, I recently became familiar with genealogy standards and a more proper process for professional level genealogy. But as a newbie to doing things this way, where to start? Luckily I came across the Research Like a Pro book, which brought me to this website and their study groups and I jumped in. The study group was the perfect way to help teach me a method to do genealogy in a proper way, keep organized, and have a process I could repeat. Diana and Nicole are wonderful and generous instructors, and they created an environment where I felt very supported by them, our study group mentor, and our peers. It was fun, everyone was patient and helpful, and I am ready to sign up to take the DNA version of the study group when it is next offered. I am really thankful for this class and the great foundation it gave me. Thanks!

27. 

    Robin Goodman – May 2, 2021

    This study group class was the best learning experience for me. I had never done a study group with peer reviews and the thought intimidated me but it was the most rewarding part of the course. I received constructive and helpful feedback on my Reflection Journal, Airtable, Project Plan, and Report. I enjoyed our weekly discussions with the peer group and our mentor Alice listened to everyone so carefully and guided us where we needed help. I would definitely recommend this course to anyone that is serious about taking the next step in their genealogy learning process.

28. 

    Rebecca Lambert – May 3, 2021

    I highly recommend the RLP study group! I can’t think of a better way to gain hands-on experience in genealogical research methods. Nicole and Diana take you through all of the stages of a research project through a series of well-organized steps. I learned so much in just a few months (and broke down a brick wall along the way). I really loved learning from others through peer review, mentorship, and the small group study sessions.

29. 

    Julia Todd – May 3, 2021

    I was glad I completed the RLP study group. The tools and information provided enabled me to write my first research report, and has provided me with a better understanding of how to document, research, and prove genealogy relationships. My small study group sessions were a highlight of the course.

30. 

    Sharon Beesley – May 3, 2021

    I’ve read books and journals, gone to genealogy conferences, and attended weeklong courses, but nothing has been as productive for me as the RLP study group. My brick wall seemed impenetrable and I had resigned myself to trying to learn the skills that would help me organize my previous research. I got that and more! Following the RLP process, I was able to find a family for my mystery ancestor, opening up more paths for research. The course is well thought out. Diana and Nicole methodically introduced us to skills and products that we focused on for a week at a time. The experience of working with my mentor Melody, ever encouraging and thoughtful, and our peer group was one of the highlights for me, offering a chance to ask questions and discuss projects with people who are interested.

31. 

    Shari Russell – May 5, 2021

    I love the RLP process! This class is great for the the novice as well as the seasoned genealogist. The process works and the skills learned and put into practice is the best way for me to learn. The organization system is invaluable! I love how the process actually improves and streamlines my research. I completed the e-course a year ago and the study group enhanced that learning with the assistance of Nicole and Diana. They are so well organized and genuinely nice. I would highly recommend this course!

32. 

    Laura Smith – November 9, 2022

    Diana and Nicole are wonderful! This is such a great course. It is perfectly paced so that you are making progress and learning each step, but not left feeling overwhelmed. The entire process is clear and systematic. I wish that this course was available years ago when I was getting started in genealogy.

33. 

    Lisa Anderson – November 13, 2022

    The Research Like a Pro course definitely surpassed my hopes and expectations, which were already pretty high. Completing my own research project while learning about AirTable, citations, and the step-by-step RLP protocol was a real plus. The course outline is well thought out, and we had a great deal of support when we needed it. Meeting with our small peer group and peer group leader every week kept us going. The access to class recordings, links to podcasts and related articles, and the many work samples provided a lot of confidence and encouragement to push through any challenges we encountered. I feel certain that the skills and procedures I learned in the is class will really enhance my approach to genealogy from now on.

34. 

    Sarah Rosendahl – November 14, 2022

    What a wonderful experience the Research Like a Pro Study group was! I have been doing reseach for years and have a lot of great family information and documents to show for it. But I had not been able to pull it together in a cohensive way. The Research Like a Pro method is more than how to organize and research, it is also how to think and write. I made progress toward my objective and have a cohesive, well written report – with much thanks to my peer reviewers. Next up? Research Like a Pro with DNA in 2023.

35. 

    Lisa Just – November 14, 2022

    I love the Research Like a Pro process I learned in the Study Group! In their weekly sessions, Diana and Nicole break down the steps to become a better researcher and writer. Also, it was nice meeting with our Peer Group weekly to talk over questions we had about the weekly assignments. I learned so much not only from Diana and Nicole, but from the members in my Peer Group by reading their work, receiving feedback, and giving feedback. I highly recommend Research Like a Pro if you want to learn a process to become more organized and efficient in your genealogy research.

36. 

    Melanie Martin – November 5, 2023

    Participating in the study group has been a wonderful experience.

37. 

    Jill Nock – November 6, 2023

    I’ve used the Research Like a Pro process for several years. This was my first RLP Study Group, and it won’t be my last. Diana and Nicole are wonderful instructors who take you through the process and provide examples at every step. There is always an opportunity to ask questions and receive knowledgeable answers. The Peer Group is a nice bonus which allows you to meet once a week to ask questions about the assignments of the Peer Group leader or other members. Our group hit it off very well, and several of us plan to stay in touch after the Study Group is over. Whether you’re just starting your genealogy research journey or have been doing it for and years, I think you’ll see the merit of the Research Like a Pro Study Group.

38. 

    Karen Ramon – November 14, 2023

    The Research Like a Pro Study Group has been so fun and so valuable! This was my second time through and I will likely participate again in the future. I enjoy working through the process and meeting with the Peer Group. Diana and Nicole are very approachable with any questions, and meeting with the small group is a fantastic experience. I’ve made significant progress with my research and become more organized in my research projects!

39. 

    David Ralls – November 15, 2023

    I came across Family Locket a few months prior to participating in the Research Like a Pro course. I was immediately struck by the ease of presentation style of communicating information on their podcast. After listening to several podcasts, I decided I needed to learn more about Research Like a Pro. The course was everything I could hope for. RLP gave me structure that I can rely on going forward. I believe the most important learning is writing your report. Often this is the most skipped step for us amateurs. Writing your report brings closure to this phase and allows you to critically think about your next step. I couldn’t be happier! I plan on participating in the next RLP w/DNA.

40. 

    Susan McKee – November 19, 2023

    This was my first time participating in the RLP Study Group. I was introduced to Diana and Nicole’s work when they presented at the Seattle Genealogical Society’s Spring Seminar this year. I sought out their podcast after thoroughly enjoying their presentations at the seminar. The podcast confirmed that they are gifted instructors. They have a simple, clear, and polished presentation style, which makes it easy to understand the points they want to get across. Listening to the podcasts and reading through the materials they provide on their Family Locket website, I was very impressed at their generosity and how much of their knowledge they share freely on those two platforms. Joining their study group was the logical next step. I wanted to use the course to achieve some of my personal development goals as well as develop my research skills. There is a lot of work involved in the course. It requires time and commitment. However, the payoff is substantial. I came away with confidence in the skills I already possessed when I joined the course and developed new techniques and ways of thinking about research that will serve me well going forward. Diana and Nicole are skilled educators and generous individuals who gave an abundance of their time, feedback, and support throughout the 11-weeks. I highly recommend this course!

41. 

    Julie Corley – November 22, 2023

    A great experience in every way. I discovered the importance of learning about the state/local area I am researching, developed skills to priortize research so I effectively use my time, and created a report summarizing my findings and analysis. Diana and Nicole are wonderful teachers and knowledgable genealogists. The small group aspect allows you closely connect with others taking the course. So happy that I participated in RLP and thrilled with the skills I developed.

42. 

    Sue Thomson – November 13, 2024

    The Research Like a Pro Study group was a great experience and has moved my research in Ireland to a whole new level. I had read the book, but the format of the group session and feedback from peers take your research to a whole new level. In particular, I now understand the importance of the locality guide and mastering source citations.

43. 

    Elizabeth Lee – November 13, 2024

    This study group was so very helpful in getting me organized and having the confidence to write a research report. I highly recommend.

44. 

    Scott Dickson – November 16, 2024

    This was my second time to participate in the RLP Study Group – and that’s really what it is. Diana and Nicole present a well-thought-out methodology for effective and efficient research and writing. The weekly lecture sessions are very helpful, with breakouts during the session to share thoughts with other participants.

    But, my favorite part, and the reason that I enrolled again this year, is the “Study Group” aspect. You will work with a small cohort of 6-7 people, led by a seasoned researcher, to go through the process, share your experiences, and review each other’s work. Hearing from your peers, some of whom are newer to the field and some with many more years of experience, is what helps you to grow as a genealogist and researcher.

    The RLP process has really helped me in my research and the peer group helped me improve the quality of my work. I very well may be back again next year!

45. 

    Diane Markham – November 16, 2024

    I am just now completing the last chapter in the RLP Study Group, and I previously took the e-course. I recommend both a I got SO much out of each of them. Diana and Nicole have this process down to an art. The website is easy to manage, as are the documents. A+ all the way!

46. 

    Lisa Carver – November 19, 2024

    I just finished my first Research Like A Pro study group and I highly recommend it! Diana and Nicole have designed a well-organized and highly relevant course that introduces both new and experienced genealogists to fresh ideas for research methodology, organization, writing, and technology. I especially like how they stay up-to-date on the latest digital tools and techniques that can facilitate research and save time. Each lesson incorporates ideas for students to consider incorporating into their own work, and provides opportunities to practice new skills. Even as Diana and Nicole are still experimenting with the usefulness of a particular tool, they share the the pros and cons of what they’re discovering and encourage students to adopt what suits them best.

47. 

    Ashley Danzi – December 26, 2024

    The RLP study group was an amazing experience. Nicole and Diana have prepared an educational structure to really improve research skills and overall project management. I have owned the book for a while and have been listening to the podcast, but working on an actual research objective to put the steps into practice in real time highlighted the value of each step. Also the peer group was an excellent part of the experience. Genealogy can be fairly solitary so I really appreciated the opportunity to connect with others who share my enthusiasm and bounce ideas off one another. It was also really interesting to learn how the lessons were applied to different types of projects. I would absolutely recommend this course to anyone who wants to graduate from dabbling to performing actual research and working towards a specific goal.