Do You Read the Q?
Earlier this month, attendees at the National Genealogical Society’s annual conference in Raleigh, North Carolina, took to social media to proudly display ribbons proclaiming “#IReadtheQ”—that is, to say that they read the National Genealogical Society Quarterly. Reading the Q and other peer-reviewed journals is one of the best ways genealogists can learn about sources and problem-solving techniques. But for those who are relatively new to genealogy, reading a journal like the Q can seem intimidating and even a little confusing. Yes, it requires concentration and effort, but those who stick with it will certainly learn.
Most of the articles in the Q are case studies presenting solutions to difficult problems. All genealogists are likely to encounter thorny problems in their research. By studying written accounts of how others resolved their toughest puzzles, genealogists will find ideas and inspiration. By observing how skilled genealogists build their cases from varied pieces of evidence, readers’ own skills in evidence analysis and correlation will improve.
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About Author
Laura Murphy DeGrazia, CG
Laura Murphy DeGrazia, editor of NGS Monthly, is a professional genealogist specializing in the New York City area and Irish Americans. She is a former trustee and past president of the Board for Certification of Genealogists. From 2010 through 2014 she edited the New York Genealogical and Biographical Record. Her book on researching in New York City, Long Island, and Westchester County, New York, was published as part of the NGS Research in the States series in 2013. Laura is a member of the NGS Magazine Editorial Advisory Committee and the NGS Publications Committee.
Good article! I usually try to read NGSQ articles twice. I wasn’t at the conference but is there any way I could get a ribbon?
Thank you, Gwen! I’ll pass along your inquiry about the ribbon. Happy reading!
During the past 45 years I have attended local seminars and national conferences, and I have been a member of the National Genealogical Society for many years. I have learned a LOT from all of these, and thoroughly appreciate the NGS Magazine, which is very professionally well-written. I no longer travel, so I look forward to each magazine. I never stop learning, and always find information in each magazine which pertains to me and to my genealogical. In the field of genealogy there is ALWAYS something new happening, and you always keep pace with the changes.
Thank You!
Nancy Sparks