This textbook teaches the principles of genealogical documentation. There are exercises at the end of each chapter with answers at the back of the book.

Everyone tracing a family's history faces a dilemma. We strive to reconstruct relationships and lives of people we cannot see, but if we cannot see them, how do we know we have portrayed them accurately? The genealogical proof standard aims to help researchers, students, and new family historians address this dilemma and apply respected standards for acceptable conclusions.

Citation style manual for every type of source record and media.

"Genetic Genealogy in Practice covers the basic knowledge needed to apply DNA evidence to genealogical questions and then reinforces this foundation with practical applications. Each chapter ends with exercises that include real problems that researchers encounter. Answers allow complex concepts to be reviewed and mastered. As well as covering the basics of DNA testing for family history research problems, Genetic Genealogy in Practice includes discussions of ethical issues, genealogical standards, and tips on how to incorporate genetic evidence into a written conclusion. Researchers of all levels will gain a better understanding of genetic genealogy from this book."--Page [4] of cover.

Break through brick walls in your genealogical research Learn how to use innovative methods to unearth hard-to-find ancestors. Advanced Genealogy Research Techniques shows you, step by step, how to uncover elusive details by taking advantage of specialized tools and software programs and using proven best practices for breaking through the brick walls that have hindered your progress. You’ll get professional advice on formulating a research strategy, understanding the details you discover, keeping careful track of your data, analyzing the evidence, and developing hypotheses. Real-world case studies demonstrate how you can apply the systematic procedures presented in this practical guide to your own research--and achieve success! Examine the brick wall in detail to find potential weak spots that can be exploited into a breakthrough Use brute force techniques that leave no stone unturned Obtain exact copies of original records rather than derivative sources Research the family, associates, and neighbors (FANs) of your brick wall ancestor Consult with your family, friends, and colleagues to get a fresh perspective on your research Use crowdsourcing--genealogy societies, online forums, social media, blogs, wikis, and podcasts Apply technological solutions, including DNA testing and specialized genealogical software Get tips on hiring a professional genealogical researcher with the appropriate credentials and references Revisit your brick wall problem after honing your research skills Review your evidence, develop a research strategy, and keep a meticulous research log

Family historians depend upon thousands of people unknown to them. They exchange research with others; copy information from books and databases; and write libraries, societies, and government offices. At times they even hire professionals to do legwork in distant areas and trust strangers to solve important problems. But how can a researcher be assured that he or she is producing or receiving reliable results? This official manual from the Board of Certification for Genealogists provides a standard by which all genealogists can pattern their work.

Why this book, Becoming an Excellent Genealogist? Why not? Isn't that what every family historian or genealogist wants to be? We may not express it with the same terminology, but we all want to be successful genealogists. We want to find more family members and solve those "brick wall" problems that we all run into during our research. That's what an excellent genealogist does--solve tough research problems!Does it matter if you are, or want to be, a professional genealogist? This book is not designed just for professionals, but rather for you. You, as a researcher who has faced those tough problems and wondered, "What have I missed?" Or "What should I do next?"Genealogical research has become one of the most popular pastimes in the United States. As the popularity of genealogical research continues to grow, so does the need for guidance that takes the researcher beyond basic, introductory instruction. Becoming an Excellent Genealogist: Essays on Professional Research Skills provides higher levels of instruction to help you become a more excellent genealogist. This book illustrates how to use sources and information better, develop more advanced research and analytical skills, and learn new methodologies.Brought to you by the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists, the essays in this book represent hundreds of years of genealogical experience by some of the best genealogists in North America. Their clear, succinct instruction, illustrated with short examples in these brief, easy-to-read essays, demonstrate key principles to becoming an excellent genealogist. For nearly 50 years, the AG credential offered by the Commission has represented high-quality competency and efficiency of genealogists who have passed rigorous test requirements. The Commission also seeks to educate the public about issues related to excellent and professional genealogy.The Commission is now pleased to present these timeless and important principles and methodologies to serious genealogists, like you. We are happy to share many key concepts of excellent research that have spelled success to other experienced researchers, knowing that you, at whatever skill level you have attained, will benefit from reading this book! Enjoy!

"In 26 chapters, Professional genealogy: preparation, practice & standards lays before you a complete course of instruction to prepare you for a career in a complex field. Whether you discover this career path as a young adult or come into genealogy as a mature researcher trained in another professional discipline, ProGen PPS will ground you in the essential practices, standards, and language of genealogy--those expected by courts, government agencies, and others who commission research"--Back cover.