CGL Analytical Methods and Techniques 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When applying the Genealogical Proof Standard, what does 'reasonably exhaustive search' require?
- Searching only digitized online databases
- Consulting all sources that might contain relevant evidence (Correct answer)
- Limiting research to three primary sources per claim
- Using only records created within the subject's lifetime
Correct answer: Consulting all sources that might contain relevant evidence
A reasonably exhaustive search requires consulting all sources—online and offline—that could potentially contain evidence relevant to the research question.
Question 2: Which logical fallacy occurs when a genealogist accepts a conclusion simply because a widely-used published genealogy states it?
- Post hoc ergo propter hoc
- Appeal to authority (Correct answer)
- Circular reasoning
- False dichotomy
Correct answer: Appeal to authority
Accepting a conclusion solely because a published or well-known source states it, without independent verification, is an appeal to authority fallacy.
Question 3: In genealogical analysis, what is a 'negative search result'?
- A record that disproves an existing family tradition
- A documented search that found no relevant information (Correct answer)
- Evidence that a person did not exist
- A conclusion that contradicts DNA evidence
Correct answer: A documented search that found no relevant information
A negative search result is a documented, thorough search of a source that yielded no relevant information, which itself serves as evidence.
Question 4: When two original records conflict about a subject's birth year, which analytical approach is most appropriate?
- Default to the earlier date as more conservative
- Examine the informant's knowledge and proximity to the event for each record (Correct answer)
- Average the two dates for a probable birth year
- Discard both records and seek a third source
Correct answer: Examine the informant's knowledge and proximity to the event for each record
Evaluating who provided the information and how close they were to the event helps determine which record is more likely accurate.
Question 5: What distinguishes 'indirect evidence' from 'direct evidence' in genealogical research?
- Indirect evidence comes from secondary sources only
- Indirect evidence requires inference to answer the research question (Correct answer)
- Indirect evidence is always less reliable than direct evidence
- Indirect evidence cannot be used in a proof argument
Correct answer: Indirect evidence requires inference to answer the research question
Indirect evidence does not directly answer the research question but, when combined with other evidence, can support a conclusion through reasoning.
Question 6: A genealogist finds a deed naming 'John Smith, son of William Smith.' What type of evidence is the parent-child relationship stated in this deed?
- Direct evidence from a derivative source
- Direct evidence from an original source (Correct answer)
- Indirect evidence from an original source
- Negative evidence from a primary informant
Correct answer: Direct evidence from an original source
The deed is an original source, and the statement explicitly answers the research question about parentage, making it direct evidence.
Question 7: In cluster research, why do genealogists study associates, neighbors, and kin (ANK) of the subject?
- To comply with privacy laws requiring third-party verification
- Because migration patterns, naming conventions, and record gaps are often explained by the surrounding community (Correct answer)
- To identify potential heirs for estate research
- To satisfy the GPS requirement for multiple sources
Correct answer: Because migration patterns, naming conventions, and record gaps are often explained by the surrounding community
Studying the surrounding community reveals migration patterns, naming traditions, and relationships that explain gaps and connections in the subject's own records.
CGL Analytical Methods and Techniques 2
When applying the Genealogical Proof Standard, what does 'reasonably exhaustive search' require?