Genealogical Proof Standard

The Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS) is a guideline for establishing the reliability ("proof") of a genealogical conclusion with reasonable certainty.{{cite web |last1=Stahle |first1=Tyler S. |title=Understanding the Genealogical Proof Standard |url=https://www.familysearch.org/blog/en/genealogicalproofstandardpart1/ |website=Family Search |accessdate=13 December 2019}} It is important within the genealogical community for clearly communicating the quality of research performed, such as by a professional genealogist. It is also useful for helping new genealogists understand what is needed to do high-quality research, how to identify an individual and establish family relationships.{{Cite book |last=Merriman |first=Brenda Dougall |title=Genealogical Standards of Evidence: A Guide for Family Historians |publisher=Dundurn |year=2010 |isbn=9781770705944}}

It has five elements:

• reasonably exhaustive research;
• complete and accurate source citations;
• analysis and correlation of the collected information;
• resolution of any conflicting evidence; and
• a soundly reasoned, coherently written conclusion.{{Cite web|title = Board for Certification of Genealogists ® - The Genealogical Proof Standard|url = https://www.bcgcertification.org/ethics-standards#genealogical-proof-standard-gps|website = www.bcgcertification.org|access-date = 2024-11-11}}