Principles of Genealogical Research

At Wharfedale Research we follow the standards and good practice considered by the Society of Genealogists^* to be essential in the conduct of genealogical research.

• Accuracy and honesty of all personal research and of work published, promoted or distributed to others.

• Provision of clear evidence from primary sources to support all conclusions and statements of fact.

• Use of original sources and records (or surrogate images of originals) to gather key information.

• Citation and recording of sources used so that others may also evaluate the evidence.

• Logical and reasoned development of family links with each step proved from valid evidence before further deductions are made.

• Investigation and analysis of all possible solutions and of contradictory evidence with each alternative hypothesis examined and tested.

• Qualification of less certain conclusions as probable or possible so that others are not misled.

• Acceptance of the possibility that a solution may not be found and acknowledgement of circumstances in which this occurs.

• Awareness of gaps in the availability of and information from sources at all levels.

• Receptiveness to new information and to informed comment which may challenge earlier conclusions.

• Acknowledgement and attribution of research done by others and use of such work as a secondary source only.

• Evidence only becomes proof through a reasoned and logical analysis and argument capable of convincing others that the conclusion is valid.

* Following these standards and good practices is not intended to imply that this site is endorsed by the Society