BCG Genealogical Proof Standard & Proof Arguments 3

Question 1

Under BCG's Genealogical Standards, which of the following written products can stand alone as a proof of a genealogical conclusion when it meets all five GPS elements?

Accepted Answer

A proof argument

Answer

A source list

Answer

A research log

Answer

An index of names

Question 2

What is the primary purpose of complete and accurate source citations as a GPS element?

Accepted Answer

To enable other researchers to locate, evaluate, and verify the sources used

Answer

To impress clients with thoroughness

Answer

To satisfy legal requirements for genealogical records

Answer

To demonstrate the number of sources consulted

Question 3

When writing a proof argument, how should a BCG-credentialed genealogist handle an ancestor whose identity cannot be proven from surviving records alone?

Accepted Answer

Use negative evidence, indirect evidence, and correlation of circumstantial evidence to build a reasoned case

Answer

State the conclusion as a theory without documentation

Answer

Omit the individual from the compiled genealogy

Answer

Accept oral tradition as sufficient proof

Question 4

According to BCG standards, what is the relationship between the GPS and a genealogist's credential or certification?

Accepted Answer

Meeting GPS standards is a core competency assessed in BCG credentialing

Answer

The GPS applies only to published genealogies, not to client work

Answer

The GPS is optional guidance that certified genealogists may follow

Answer

The GPS applies only to lineage society applications

Question 5

A genealogist finds that a subject appears in a 1900 census at age 35 but a death certificate lists his birth year as 1872. What GPS element must be applied to address this discrepancy?

Accepted Answer

Resolution of conflicting evidence

Answer

Reasonably exhaustive search

Answer

Complete and accurate source citations

Answer

Soundly reasoned conclusion

Question 6

Which scenario best illustrates 'circumstantial evidence' leading to a valid genealogical conclusion under GPS?

Accepted Answer

Multiple land records, tax lists, and neighbor patterns showing two men of the same name lived in adjacent counties at the same time, distinguishing them

Answer

A birth certificate naming both parents

Answer

A family bible entry listing all children

Answer

A signed affidavit from a witness to the event

Question 7

In BCG's framework, what distinguishes a 'proof argument' from a standard genealogical report?

Accepted Answer

A proof argument is a self-contained essay that explicitly demonstrates how all GPS elements are satisfied for a single conclusion

Answer

A proof argument is written for lineage societies only

Answer

A proof argument focuses solely on disproving alternative conclusions

Answer

A proof argument is written only when a client requests formal documentation