First names- together with the last names, these are vital information, too. However, the downside is when nicknames are also being used by our ancestors. In this case, middle names could be of help. There are also some conventions in naming children. Parents from Scotland could follow the formula of naming their children: the first son could be named after the child s father s father, while the next son could be name after the mother s father, and so forth. Leafing through old notes and books could unearth details you never thought existed about your own family. Do not disregard notes inserted in between pages or any notes written on them. Usuallu, diaries or journals are discovered in trunks and attics. They could also be found in bookshelves. Look through stuff Checking behind mirrors that are old and worn could also lead to unexpected family genealogy discoveries. Almost all of the words in contemporary times of Chinese are multi-syllabic or polysyllabic which need to write two or more characters. The cognates in different Chinese dialects that have similar definitions but differ in pronunciations are written with similar character. There are numerous characters originated and used according to Korean and Japanese definitions which will represent as native words. Interview, interview, interview It is advisable that you list all the family members you know and would like to conduct an interview with. You can also consider the other relatives you could interview via phone or thru email, that is if they would be unavailable in person. However, it is best that you first ask your own relative s permission if they are willing to let themselves be interviewed. One could go there (yes, these are physical meeting houses or chapels which number up to 3,400!) and start researching by accessing microfiches that record which microfilms to look for. There are different microfilms for different records such as: civil, marriage, as well as, death records. Upon getting hold of the needed microfilm, one could proceed to either record on paper or use a computer. Some people may see it as a waste of time but the truth is it can be rewarding in the end. What you will find out is the greatest mystery. The possibility of having a hero ancestor is not impossible. Your long time friend with the same surname like yours may be your long lost relative in the end. The genealogy with regards to culture is also important because this is where we usually base most of our traditions that even up to now exists.