Introduction to the Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS)

Vocabulary and key concepts related to the foundational standards of genealogical research as presented by the Barefoot Genealogist.

Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS)

A standard published by the Board for Certification of Genealogists to ensure research conclusions merit confidence and possess sufficient credibility to be accepted as proved.

Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG)

The organization that published the genealogical proof standard and offers a process to certify that a genealogist's work meets specific standards.

Reasonably exhaustive search

The first element of the GPS, which involves looking at enough original sources to avoid hasty conclusions or overlooked evidence that could overturn a later conclusion.

Complete and accurate citation of sources

The second element of the GPS, which involves recording source information to understand credibility and ensure the research can be found again.

Analysis and correlation

The third element of the GPS, which involves examining and comparing all collected information to see how it relates to one another.

Resolution of conflicting evidence

The fourth element of the GPS, which requires clarifying or reconciling contradictions found within different genealogical sources.

Soundly reasoned, coherently written conclusion

The fifth element of the GPS, which emphasizes documenting the reasons why a specific genealogical decision or connection was made.

Weak link

A term used to describe a point where a person is incorrectly added to a family tree, often causing the researcher to trace an entirely different family line.

Genealogy Standards (50th Anniversary Edition)

The manual published by the Board for Certification of Genealogists that provides detailed information on the five elements of the genealogical proof standard.

Ancestry 101

A basic family history training class taught by Christa Cowen for new employees at ancestry.com to help them understand genealogical research.