Whether you plan on becoming a professional genealogist or would like to ensure thoroughness in your own family history search...it pays to master the skills needed for the job.
I have been researching my family for close to 40 years now. Starting when I was 11 years old, I have built up quite a repertoire of skills and resources that I consistently use while researching.
Even though I plan on eventually becoming a certified genealogist, I am not quite ready to fully commit myself to a study program at this time.
However, I am still committed to learning everything I can. According to the Board of Certified Genealogists website, "The first step to becoming certified is to acquire the skills and knowledge expressed in Genealogy Standards."
Mastering Genealogical Proof
Using the interlibrary loan system at my library, I checked out a copy of Mastering Genealogical Proof by Thomas W. Jones.
As I was perusing the table of contents, I found the answer to one of the biggest questions I have always asked myself: When is the information I have enough?
Element 1 of the Genealogical Proof Standard is "Thorough ("reasonably exhaustive") searches in sources that might help answer a research question."
Chapter 3 answers the question of what "reasonably exhaustive" means to the researcher. Six criteria should be used as a guide in the search:
- At least two independently-created evidence items in agreement.
- All sources competent genealogists would examine
- Some primary information.
- Some original records
- Relevant authored works, derivative records, and secondary information replaced by findable corresponding originals and primary information.
- All findable sources that relevant sources and indexes suggest.
By using these criteria, I can feel more certain in my research to say "enough is enough".
Amy Johnson Crow
As I took in this new information, I came across a wonderful article written by Amy Johnson Crow on her blog. It complemented what I had just read in Jones' book.
To ensure that you are getting the most out of your sources, there are things you should do with each one. You can read more about this topic at amyjohnsoncrow.com "4 Things You Should Do With Every Genealogy Source"
Professional Genealogy
Sometimes, luck can even have a hand in your education! I work at a library, and sometimes other libraries will offer discarded books on an email listserv. A short time ago, I was the lucky recipient of 2001 edition of Professional Genealogy, edited by Elizabeth Shown Mills.
What have you been reading, watching or listening to lately to help build your genealogical skills? Every book, blog, podcast or video is just as valuable as the conferences you attend!
Sources:
- Jones, Thomas W. Mastering Genealogical Proof. National Genealogical Society, 2013.
- Crow, Amy Johnson. “4 Things You Should Do With Every Genealogy Source.” Amy Johnson Crow, 15 Aug. 2019, www.amyjohnsoncrow.com/4-things-every-genealogy-source/.
- Mills, Elizabeth Shown. Professional Genealogy.: a Manual for Researchers-Writers-Editors-Lecturers and Librarians. Genealogical Publishing Company, 2001.
