Standards for Sound 
Genealogical Research 

Remembering always that they are engaged in the 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 that they have not been altered, as the basis for their research conclusions
• state something as a fact only when it is supported by convincing evidence and identify the evidence when communicating a 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