Learn to be skeptical! Source independence and diversity, combined with thorough analysis, are keys to dependable research results. Don’t let mistaken assumptions lead you astray. Anyone can master the basic concepts of sources, information, and evidence and anyone can learn to effectively analyze research results for reliability, credibility, and relevance. It’s tempting to take what we find at face value, but sources are not created equal, and the information they provide is not always what it seems. Genealogists consult numerous sources in their quest for reliable research answers. Grains of Salt: Analyzing Sources, Information & Evidence Discussion includes practical examples and step-by-step practice. This presentation begins with the basics, then digs deeper into evolving standards for documenting 21st century sources. It takes self-discipline and thoughtfulness, but well-documented research stands the test of time. Citing sources creates a permanent “breadcrumb trail” that others can follow and enhances the credibility of research findings. Source documentation and citations are important components of every successful family history project. How do you know when at last you’ve arrived? Learn to navigate the challenges of “reasonably exhaustive research” and determine you’ve finally reached journey’s end.ĭocumentation & Citation: Keep Calm and Cite Your Sources! We get impatient to reach the destination-a reliable, provable answer to our genealogical question. Sometimes our genealogical journey feels like a road trip with small children. Reasonably Exhaustive Research: Are We There Yet? This introduction to the Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS) looks at the development of modern standards, their importance for all genealogists, and how anyone, at any level of experience, can effectively apply these common-sense “best practices” to their family project. Testing your work against recognized standards helps achieve your goals. Producing a high-quality, reliable genealogy for your family requires thoughtfulness and thoroughness during the research process. The Genealogical Proof Standard: Put the Power of GPS to Work! Presentation includes simple, practical examples and step-by-step practice. Geared to beginners, this presentation seeks to de-mystify the process by addressing the basics of documenting and citing sources. Keeping track of information sources contributes to the success of any family history project, and it’s not as difficult as you might think. Learn to get the most from timelines-an essential tool for genealogical success! Timelines are easy to construct and offer valuable context for your ancestor’s life. Successful genealogists use timelines at every step of the research process, from research planning, to analyzing research results, to writing their family’s unique story. Learn the basics for constructing effective research plans and explore techniques for using a research log to document your project. Your genealogical journey will be more satisfying and successful if you set out with a solid research plan, then track your progress in a research log. Research Plans & Research Logs: Where are you going? Where have you been? Content includes timelines, tables, spreadsheets, charts and graphs and how to create flexible templates to streamline the research process. These simple tools and techniques are powerful and effective, yet easy to master. Tools of the Trade: Timelines, Tables, Templates and More!īasic computer word-processing and pencil-to-paper templates can help organize, analyze and understand genealogical research. When you reach the point that it’s easier to print new copies of records than to find your old copies, you know you’ve arrived at critical mass, and it’s time to take action! Content includes software tools for organization, computer filing techniques, “hard copy” options, and archival storage solutions. It’s easy to become overwhelmed and disorganized. Making Sense of the Shambles: Organizational Tools for GenealogyĪs family historians, we tend to be “Keepers of Everything,” from treasured original family documents and photographs to printed copies found online and at repositories. What are the best options and how do you differentiate between true “gems” and outright junk? This presentation explores the very best and the very worst of online genealogy. Today’s family historians have an amazing selection of online sources and resources for genealogical research. Gems & Junk: A Beginner’s Guide to Online Research Learn the basics to get started in this satisfying and fascinating pursuit through “Five Steps to Family History Success.” Discussion includes technology and online research options in addition to projects on paper and traditional onsite research.
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