In time, digitised records will become available online starting with the 1891 Census. These are indexes covering the OPRs, and the statutory birth and marriage certificates from 1855 to 1875. Most of these are in respect of mailing lists and newsgroups. In most cases a professional research service would offer the most efficient option. The professionals know the pitfalls and the best ways of overcoming the inevitable difficulties which crop up during almost every search.
Most amateurs derive enormous satisfaction from researching their own family tree.
Putting Flesh on the Bones Compilation of a family tree, or pedigree chart, should not be an end in itself. Once you have discovered who your ancestors were, the next stage is to find out more about them, their jobs, their families and the localities in which they lived. You will, of course, have already acquired basic family information from the certificates and census returns. Even to scan through old newspapers will give you an insight into the way of life in the town or village. Obtain copies of large-scale maps covering those areas where your ancestors lived.