BCG Documentation & Record Management 4

Question 1

In Evidence Explained by Elizabeth Shown Mills, what does the term 'authored work' refer to?

Accepted Answer

A record created by compiling, abstracting, or analyzing other sources, such as a published genealogy

Answer

An authored work is a compiled, interpreted, or analytical piece—such as a book, article, or published genealogy—created by someone drawing on other sources.

Question 2

When should a genealogist revise a previously reached conclusion?

Accepted Answer

When new evidence conflicts with the conclusion and cannot be reconciled with the existing proof argument

Answer

Genealogical conclusions are working hypotheses; they must be revised when new, conflicting evidence emerges that cannot be reconciled with the existing proof argument.

Question 3

A researcher photocopies a deed from a county courthouse. What type of source is the photocopy?

Accepted Answer

A derivative source

Answer

A photocopy is a derivative source because it is a reproduction of the original record, even if it is an exact image copy.

Question 4

Which of the following best describes 'indirect evidence' in genealogical analysis?

Accepted Answer

Evidence that answers the research question only when combined with other evidence

Answer

Indirect evidence does not by itself answer the research question; it must be combined and correlated with other evidence to reach a conclusion.

Question 5

A genealogist prepares a proof summary rather than a proof argument. When is a proof summary appropriate?

Accepted Answer

When a simple, undisputed conclusion is supported by a single document

Answer

A proof summary is appropriate for straightforward conclusions supported by strong, consistent evidence that requires minimal explanation or conflict resolution.

(BCG) Board for the Certification of Genealogists Practice Test

(BCG) Board for the Certification of Genealogists Practice Test

BCG Documentation & Record Management 4