CGL CGL Research Methodology

Question 1

What is the Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS) used for in genealogical research?

Accepted Answer

To provide a framework for reaching soundly reasoned, well-documented conclusions about ancestry

Answer

The GPS is a five-element standard developed by the Board for Certification of Genealogists to guide researchers toward reliable conclusions.

Question 2

Which of the following is the FIRST step recommended in the Genealogical Proof Standard?

Accepted Answer

Reasonably exhaustive search of all sources

Answer

A reasonably exhaustive search ensures the researcher has not missed critical evidence before drawing conclusions.

Question 3

In genealogical research, what distinguishes an 'original' source from a 'derivative' source?

Accepted Answer

An original is the first recording of information; a derivative is created from an original

Answer

Original sources are the first capture of information, while derivatives (abstracts, transcriptions, indexes) are created from originals and may introduce errors.

Question 4

What does 'direct evidence' mean in genealogical research?

Accepted Answer

Information that answers a research question without needing to be combined with other evidence

Answer

Direct evidence explicitly answers a research question on its own, unlike indirect evidence which requires correlation with other sources.

Question 5

When a genealogical lecturer teaches research methodology, which approach best illustrates the concept of 'indirect evidence'?

Accepted Answer

A death certificate lists no parents, but the informant's age allows inference about birth year

Answer

Indirect evidence requires inference or combination with other data to answer the research question, unlike direct evidence which answers it explicitly.

(CGL) Certified Genealogical Lecturer Practice Test

(CGL) Certified Genealogical Lecturer Practice Test

CGL CGL Research Methodology