BCG Genealogical Proof Standard & Proof Arguments

Question 1

How many elements comprise the Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS) as defined by the Board for Certification of Genealogists?

Accepted Answer

Five

Answer

Three

Answer

Four

Answer

Six

Question 2

Which GPS element requires that all relevant sources be examined before reaching a genealogical conclusion?

Accepted Answer

Reasonably exhaustive search

Answer

Complete source citations

Answer

Resolution of conflicting evidence

Answer

Soundly reasoned conclusion

Question 3

In the GPS framework, what type of written product is appropriate when evidence is straightforward, non-conflicting, and the conclusion can be stated briefly?

Accepted Answer

Proof summary

Answer

Proof argument

Answer

Research report

Answer

Compiled genealogy

Question 4

When genealogical evidence is conflicting or the conclusion rests entirely on indirect or negative evidence, what written product is required to meet GPS standards?

Accepted Answer

Proof argument

Answer

Proof summary

Answer

Source list

Answer

Research log

Question 5

What term describes the GPS element that involves examining multiple pieces of evidence together to assess their combined meaning?

Accepted Answer

Correlation

Answer

Source evaluation

Answer

Triangulation

Answer

Indexing

Question 6

According to BCG standards, a genealogical conclusion is considered proven when it meets all GPS elements and is supported by what type of evidence standard?

Accepted Answer

Preponderance of the evidence

Answer

Beyond reasonable doubt

Answer

Clear and convincing evidence

Answer

Absolute certainty

Question 7

Which of the following best describes 'negative evidence' in genealogical research?

Accepted Answer

The absence of an expected record or entry that itself is informative

Answer

Evidence that disproves a hypothesis

Answer

A source that contains errors

Answer

Conflicting information from two sources