The National Genealogical Society has published standards for genealogical research, including the following:
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.
© Copyright 1997 by National Genealogical Society. Permission is granted to copy or publish this material provided it is reproduced in its entirety, including this notice.
