Genealogical Proof Standard

The purpose of the Genealogical Proof Standard¹ is to show a minimum genealogists must do for their work to be credible.

There are five elements to the Genealogical Proof Standard:

1. A reasonably exhaustive search has been conducted.
2. Each statement of fact has a complete and accurate source citation.
3. The evidence is reliable, and has been skillfully correlated and interpreted.
4. Any contradictory evidence has been resolved.
5. The conclusion has been soundly reasoned.

Any proof statement is subject to re-evaluation when new evidence arises.

    1. The BCG Genealogical Standards Manual (Orem, Utah: Ancestry Publishing, 2000), 1-2, and Thomas W. Jones, "Proved?: Five Ways to Prove Who Your Ancestor Was" (printed handout fo ra lecture presented to library staff, 23 October 2003, Family History Library, Salt Lake City), 1.