Guide to Genealogical Research in the National Archives. A Manual for Documenting Family Histories and Genealogical Records. A Guide to the Standard of Proof Relating to Pedigrees, Ancestry, Heirship and Family History. Aegean Park Press, 1979. A sound understanding of the principles of evidence analysis is important to excellence in genealogy.
Evidence ranges widely in quality and credibility.
Successful applicants are those who know the strengths and shortcomings of all the major types of evidence, as well as the minor ones in their areas of specialization. The ability to compile a clear and thorough report of research performed in a given repository is a skill vital to anyone who does genealogical research, whether on a personal or professional basis. The modern study of family history is an immensely complex subject. Successful applicants are more likely to demonstrate solid knowledge in a single area of specialization, using a broad range of resources for that subject and applying a sound understanding of the area's history and special problems. For more information about BCG, please see the other material available here at our website or contact the Board at the address given above.