Evidence Analysis and Reasoning
Reason from evidence, not from records alone
Evidence analysis applies the Genealogical Proof Standard: reasonably exhaustive research, complete and accurate citations, analysis and correlation, resolution of conflicts, and a soundly reasoned conclusion. Classify evidence as direct, indirect, or negative, but remember that classification depends on the question. Correlate independent sources, build timelines, and test alternative identities. Look for bias, transcription error, informant knowledge, and record purpose. A single record rarely proves identity; convergence does.
Conflict and sufficiency
When sources disagree, do not simply prefer the oldest or most official. Ask who informed each record, when, why, and how the record was created. Seek an explanation that accounts for all reliable evidence. Negative evidence is powerful only after a search broad enough to make absence meaningful. Avoid circular reasoning, such as using a compiled genealogy to prove a fact that the compiler took from your own file.
Worked example
A death certificate gives a birth year of 1852; a census implies 1850; a family Bible says 1849. The informant on the death certificate is a grandchild, the census is a neighbor's report, and the Bible entry is contemporaneous. Correlate with baptism and school records; if the Bible is the only near-event source, explain its weight rather than declaring an exact date. Rule of thumb: explain why conflicting evidence is rejected, not just which fact you chose.