The method
- Define the relationship and known clues: names, places, periods and available documents. Mark information derived from memory or family accounts.
- Search holdings and services appropriate to the country and place. Record reference, date, page or image; distinguish the original document from a transcription or index.
- Compare agreement and contradictions. Retain several hypotheses when a connection is uncertain, then identify the next search that could distinguish them.
Fictional worked example
In a fictional case, two people share a name in different towns. A record mentions a compatible family relationship but a date differs. Your note preserves the discrepancy and each datum’s source; it does not unify people on name alone.
The record to keep
Keep reference, institution, document address, page locator, personal transcription and provisional conclusion. Limit disclosure about living people.
Your record, step by step
For your own situation, record the following information. Check a field when it is documented; missing information still needs verification. The boxes are a reminder within this page.
This checklist does not validate your project. No entries are sent or saved.
Fictional worked case. Two fictional entries share a name. The record avoids treating resemblance as certain identity.
| Element | Observation in the case | Interpretation or next check |
|---|---|---|
| Record A | Same name; birthplace stated | Keep the archive reference and record image |
| Record B | Same name; age differs by several years | Record the difference rather than silently correcting it |
| Assumed link | An online family tree connects the people | Treat the connection as a hypothesis |
| Next search | Compare spouse, parents and address when present | Keep supporting and conflicting details |
What this method can establish
This method organises documentary research. It determines neither identity, legal parentage nor inheritance rights; archive access rules vary.
Useful questions before you start
Can an unclear date be replaced by one in a shared family tree?
Keep the uncertain transcription and image. The tree is a lead rather than an automatic correction of the record; seek another document.
Supporting documentation
These references support the method. Each source shows its language and consultation date; an available directory record explains its purpose.
- National Archives, États-Unis — ressources généalogiques EN ↗
Documentation consulted on
An editorial method, a fictional example and references for further reading.