CGL Analytical Methods and Techniques 3

Question 1

What is 'correlation' in the context of genealogical proof arguments?

Accepted Answer

Comparing evidence from multiple sources to identify agreements and conflicts

Answer

Correlation involves systematically comparing information from all gathered sources to identify agreements, conflicts, and gaps before drawing conclusions.

Question 2

Which scenario best illustrates 'circular reasoning' in genealogical research?

Accepted Answer

Citing a compiled genealogy as proof, when that genealogy itself cites an unverified family tradition

Answer

Circular reasoning occurs when the proof of a claim loops back to an unverified assumption, as when a compiled work cites a tradition it helped perpetuate.

Question 3

When is a 'reasonably exhaustive search' considered complete under the GPS?

Accepted Answer

When the researcher has searched all sources that a competent genealogist would consider relevant

Answer

Completeness is judged by whether a competent genealogist would recognize that all pertinent source types have been consulted, not by a fixed number of sources.

Question 4

A researcher finds a marriage record for 'Mary Jones' but cannot confirm it is her Mary Jones. What analytical technique helps resolve this identity problem?

Accepted Answer

Cluster analysis to establish whether the marriage context fits her known associates

Answer

Cluster analysis examines whether witnesses, neighbors, and associates in the marriage record match those known from other records about the subject.

Question 5

How does 'preponderance of evidence' function in genealogical proof?

Accepted Answer

The weight of credible evidence favoring one conclusion outweighs evidence favoring alternatives

Answer

Preponderance of evidence means the cumulative weight of credible, correlated evidence tilts convincingly toward one conclusion over competing alternatives.

(CGL) Certified Genealogical Lecturer Practice Test

(CGL) Certified Genealogical Lecturer Practice Test

CGL Analytical Methods and Techniques 3