Contradictions and discrepancies

Contradictory evidence and discrepancies are normal in genealogical research. A novice researcher tends to ignore discrepancies. Experienced researchers tend to embrace them.

== Any contradictory evidence must be resolved ==

The best researchers always openly acknowledge, analyze, and attempt to explain discrepancies. It shows the thoroughness of their research, their openness with all the evidence, and their analytical and reasoning skills. Knowing and admitting the weaknesses of a case leads to better analysis and conclusions. It strengthens the genealogical community by setting an example of honesty, and pointing the way to better interpretation of the evidence.

If a researcher hesitates to use sources with contradictions or discrepancies he may overlook important evidence. If he hesitates to mention discrepancies it makes his case look weaker. Other researchers may come to believe evidence was overlooked, or that such research is unreliable.

Weigh these factors
As you analyze a contradiction or discrepancy, weigh the following factors from the Wiki article Evaluate the Evidence to help determine which sources are most trustworthy, and to help explain possible causes of the problem:

• Relevance of the Record

• Category of the Record

• Format of the Record

• Nature of the Information

• Directness of the Evidence

• Consistency and Clarity of the Facts

• Likelihood of Events

Explain the problem and its resolution
In some cases the discrepancy may be so minor it need only be mentioned. Minor spelling variations of a name usually only need to be acknowledged in the source notes.

Any past controversies researchers have had over the evidence should be acknowledged and the resolution of the problem explained.

When genealogical research is significantly affected by conflicting evidence, or which lineage to follow hangs in the balance, a formal statement is in order. State the problem—explain how the evidence seems contradictory. Explain which version you believe is most reliable and why. Give one or more reasons why you believe the less reliable evidence was created.

Types of contradictions or discrepancies
These are some of the contradictions and discrepancies a genealogist typically faces:

Spellings
Personal and geographic names are frequently misspelled in names.