Pre-historians are professionals who study human life existing before recorded history. As this field of study continues to evolve, there are several synonyms for the term pre-historian that have come into use. These include archaeologist, paleontologist, anthropologist, geologist, and historiographer. Archaeologists study the past by examining material remains such as buildings, artifacts, and fossils. Paleontologists focus on the study of fossils of extinct animals and plants. Anthropologists study human origins, cultures, and social structures. Geologists look at the formation of the earth and its evolution. Historiographers study the development and history of writing and historical records. Each of these professionals contributes to expanding our understanding of the prehistoric era.