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

The GPS consists of five elements: reasonably exhaustive search, complete and accurate source citations, analysis and correlation of evidence, resolution of conflicting evidence, and a soundly reasoned, coherently written conclusion.

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

Reasonably exhaustive search

Answer

The 'reasonably exhaustive search' element requires consulting all sources that might contain relevant information before drawing a 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

A proof summary is a concise narrative appropriate when a conclusion rests on directly stated evidence with no conflicting information requiring resolution.

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

A proof argument is a well-reasoned, fully documented essay required when evidence conflicts or when the conclusion depends solely on indirect or negative evidence.

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

Correlation is the process of analyzing and comparing multiple pieces of evidence to understand how they relate and what they collectively indicate.

(BCG) Board for the Certification of Genealogists Practice Test

(BCG) Board for the Certification of Genealogists Practice Test

BCG Genealogical Proof Standard & Proof Arguments