1. Gather together everything you have, papers, photos, documents and family heirlooms. Rummage through your attic, wardrobes, the back of the cupboards....
Always start with yourself and then work backwards generation by generation.
Then check with your relatives to see if they have any family documents they are willing to share. Clues to your family history might be found on the backs of old photographs, in the family bible, or even on a postcard. If your relative is uneasy with lending an original, offer to have copies made.
2. While you're collecting family records, set aside some time to interview your relatives. Start with Mum and Dad, dates and places of birth, marriage, deaths and then move on from there to your grandparents.
Then select a surname and focus on this family. Talk to as many relatives as possible. Try to collect stories, not just names and dates, and be sure to ask open-ended questions. This is probably the most important step in researching your family history. It may sound cliche, but don't put it off until it's too late!
3. It is best to be organised from the start. Write down everything you have learned from your family. Start with a simple filing system, notepad/index cards, A4 loose-leaf pad, A4 protective covers, for certificates and documents and a A4 ring binder. As time goes on you will aquire lots of information. You will then need a A4 ring binder for each family name.
Enter the information in a pedigree or family tree chart. (If you don't have a chart e-mail me I will send you one). These charts provide an at-a-glance overview of your family, making it easy to track your research progress. There are lots of family tree programs for the computer that are simple to use, you just enter the data for each person.
They are designed to help you draw up and publish your family tree.
4. Explore the Internet for information and leads on your ancestors. Good places to start include, message boards, and resources specific to your ancestor's location.
I have lots of links on my home page.