The Genealogical Proof Standard flowchart created by Marc McDermott of Genealogy Explained is one of the most useful visual tools available for genealogists who want to follow rigorous research practices. It distills the GPS into a step-by-step visual guide that makes the standard approachable for researchers at any level.
It can seem overwhelming, especially to the non-professional. But the GPS really is something we should strive for in our research.
Marc McDermott of Genealogy Explained has made the process of navigating the GPS a little easier.
‘Because I love a good visual, I created this process flowchart to walk you through proper genealogical research using the concepts and ideas of the GPS.”
Marc consulted Elizabeth Shown Mills and Dr Thomas Jones when coming up with his visualization. In a recent Facebook post, Ms Mills says “In addition to the verbal guidance, he’s created a great new graphic that, I suspect, many visual learners will love.”
Marc has given me permission to share his infographic with the Evidentia Community.
How to Use This Genealogical Proof Standard Flowchart
The GPS has 5 elements: a reasonably exhaustive search, complete and accurate citation of sources, analysis and correlation of collected information, resolution of conflicting evidence, and a soundly reasoned written conclusion. This flowchart walks you through each element visually, helping you understand when you have satisfied each requirement and when you need to do more work.
For genealogists who want to apply the GPS in their day-to-day research, Evidentia provides the structure to follow each step systematically. Learn how Evidentia supports the Genealogical Proof Standard element by element — and how you can use the software to build a research workflow that meets professional standards.
You can also use Evidentia’s built-in analysis tools to analyze genealogy evidence claim by claim, building toward the soundly reasoned conclusion that the GPS requires.