Following the Genealogy Proof Standard

As a professional genealogist, I also follow the Genealogical Proof Standard. For a long time, genealogists sought to define a standard by which their deduced conclusions could be measured, to appear cogent and reasonable to other colleagues and the world at large. Members of the Board for Certification of Genealogists developed the Genealogical Proof Standard to address this need and guide our work.

Proof is a fundamental concept in genealogy. To merit confidence, each conclusion resulting from historical research must have sufficient credibility to be accepted as "proven." The purpose of the Genealogical Proof Standard is to show what the minimums are that a genealogist must do for his or her work to be considered credible. Acceptable conclusions should follow the Genealogical Proof Standard.

There are five elements to the Genealogical Proof Standard. It requires that:

• A reasonably exhaustive search has been conducted.

• Each statement of fact has a complete and accurate source citation.

• The evidence is reliable and has been skillfully correlated and interpreted.

• Any contradictory evidence has been resolved.

• The conclusion has been soundly reasoned.

The Standard also requires that any proof statement be subject to re-evaluation when new evidence arises. 

For more information about this Standard and its application in our work, take a look at the Board for Certification of Genealogists Ethics and Standards.

Tobias History Research is a premier provider of history research and archives management services. With 20+ years of professional experience, founder Vicki Tobias helps clients expertly discover their history and enthusiastically share their stories. Learn more about her services.