Genealogical Methods/Standards of Proof

The Board for Certification of Genealogists established the following standards for genealogical research:


 * Reasonably exhaustive search
 * Assumes examination of a wide range of high quality sources
 * Minimizes the probability that undiscovered evidence will overturn a too-hasty conclusion
 * Complete and accurate citation of sources	
 * Demonstrates the extent of the search and the quality of the sources
 * Allows others to replicate the steps taken to reach the conclusion. (Inability to replicate the research casts doubt on the conclusion.)
 * Analysis and correlation of the collected information
 * Facilitates sound interpretation of the data contributed by each source
 * Ensures that the conclusion reflects all the evidence
 * Resolution of conflicting evidence
 * Substantiates the conclusion's credibility. (If conflicting evidence is not resolved, a credible conclusion is not possible.)
 * Soundly reasoned, coherently written conclusion
 * Eliminates the possibility that the conclusion is based on bias, preconception, or inadequate appreciation of the evidence
 * Explains how the evidence led to the conclusion

Additional information is available at []