This spring, FamilySearch introduced an exciting update to its hinting system for more experienced researchers and genealogists. With the release of 3-star record hints, you now have access to a broader range of research leads.
What Are Hints, and Why All the Stars?
A hint is a possible match between a historical record and someone in the Family Tree—such as one of your ancestors. It is an invitation from FamilySearch to evaluate the information and determine if the person listed in the record is the same as the person in the Tree. If so, you can attach the record to their person page on FamilySearch, and even discover added details about an ancestor or relative's story.
Until now, FamilySearch has only shared hints that are ranked as either 4- or 5-star quality. A 5-star hint is the strongest potential connection between a record and your ancestor. A 3-star hint is weaker because the information on the historical record and the potentially matching person page contains more differences and are more likely to not be a match.
With any hint, you should examine the record carefully to see if it is an accurate match. Because evaluating 3-star hints require more skill, they are not shown by default. We recommend that only experienced researchers and genealogists turn on access to them (see the instructions below).
Where to Find 3-Star Hints
To access 3-star record hints, select your username in the top right corner of FamilySearch, and then click Settings. Switch to the Account tab. Under the Family Tree Preferences section, toggle Expand Record Hints (Experienced Researchers Only).
You will now start to see 3-star hints alongside your existing 4- and 5-star ones, with the 3-star hint having an additional “weaker hint” warning.
You can also see record hints in the Hints section on the home page when you are signed in.
Note: 3-star hints are currently available exclusively on the FamilySearch website and are not accessible in the mobile app.
More Hints, More Discoveries
3-star hints can connect you to records you might otherwise not come across. These hints may not be effective for everyone, but if you are an experienced researcher and looking for more leads, they could be exactly what you need to make your next family history breakthrough!
Related Articles
At FamilySearch, we care about connecting you with your family, and we provide fun discovery experiences and family history services for free. Why? Because we cherish families and believe that connecting generations can improve our lives now and forever. We are a nonprofit organization sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. To learn more about our beliefs, click here.
