Genealogical Standards Standards For Sound Genealogical Research Recommended by the National Genealogical Society Remembering always that they are engaged in a quest for truth, family history researchers consistently—— --- record the source for each item of information they collect. --- test every hypothesis or theory against credible evidence, and reject those that are not supported by the evidence. --- seek original records, or reproduced images of them when there is reasonable assurance they have not been altered, as the basis for their research conclusions. --- use compilations, communications and published works, whether paper or electronic, primarily for their value as guides to locating the original records. --- state something as a fact only when it is supported by convincing evidence, and identify the evidence when communicating the fact to others. --- limit with words like "probable" or "possible" any statement that is based on less than convincing evidence, and state the reasons for concluding that it is probable or possible. --- avoid misleading other researchers by either intentionally or carelessly distributing or publishing inaccurate information. --- state carefully and honestly the results of their own research, and acknowledge all use of other researchers’’ work. --- recognize the collegial nature of genealogical research by making their work available to others through publication, or by placing copies in appropriate libraries or repositories, and by welcoming critical comment. --- consider with open minds new evidence or the comments of others on their work and the conclusions they have reached. ©1997 by National Genealogical Society. Permission is granted to copy or publish this material provided it is reproduced in its entirety, including this notice. Tim Singleton, tsingleton@iclub.org 105 Nancy Drive Richmond, KY 40475-8613 Volunteer INGenWeb Coordinator Adams Co. - http://www.rootsweb.com/~inadams Randolph Co. - http://www.rootsweb.com/~inrandol/