Using Google Search to Find Ancestors Faster

Here are a few Google search tricks every genealogist should know!

1. Put Names in Quotation Marks

This is the best place to start. Quotation marks force Google to search for an exact name instead of separate words.

Try this: "Harry Alcock" or "Alcock, Harry"

This instantly cuts down on irrelevant results.

2. Exclude the Wrong Results

If the same incorrect person, place, or website keeps showing up, remove it with a minus sign.

Example: "Harry Alcock" -London

You can exclude locations, websites, or even alternate names.

3. Search a Range of Years

When you don’t know an exact date, searching a range is incredibly helpful.

Example: "Harry Alcock" 1880..1890

This works especially well for birth, marriage, and death research.

4. Find Names and Dates Near Each Other

This trick helps make sure names and dates are actually related—not just listed on the same page.

Example: "Harry Alcock" AROUND(10) 1885

Lower numbers mean a closer connection and more accurate results.

5. Search Inside a Specific Website

If you trust a particular genealogy website, tell Google to search only there.

Example: site:familysearch.org "Harry Alcock"

Perfect for digging deeper into large genealogy databases.

6. Search Page Titles Only

When you want pages that focus entirely on your ancestor, search page titles.

Example: allintitle:"Harry Alcock"

This is ideal for biographies, family histories, and surname studies.

Final Thoughts

These Google search tricks work even better when you combine them. With a little practice, Google can become one of your most powerful genealogy research tools—and help you find your ancestors faster with less frustration.

Happy searching! 🧬✨