Genealogical Proof Standard

The purpose of the Genealogical Proof Standard1 is to show a minimum genealogists must do for their work to be credible.

There are five elements to the Genealogical Proof Standard:


 * 1) A reasonably exhaustive search has been conducted.
 * 2) Each statement of fact has a complete and accurate source citation.
 * 3) The evidence is reliable, and has been skillfully correlated and interpreted.
 * 4) Any contradictory evidence has been resolved.
 * 5) The conclusion has been soundly reasoned.

Any proof statement is subject to re-evaluation when new evidence arises.

1. The BCG Genealogical Standards Manual (Orem, Utah: Ancestry Publishing, 2000), 1-2, and Thomas W. Jones, "Proved?: Five Ways to Prove Who Your Ancestor Was" (printed handout fo ra lecture presented to library staff, 23 October 2003, Family History Library, Salt Lake City), 1.