Proof Summaries + FamilySearch

If you’ve ever added information to the FamilySearch Family Tree only to have someone change it later, this episode will help you bring clarity and confidence to your conclusions. Today we’re talking about proof summaries—what they are, when to use them, and how they can help you “prove yourself” on FamilySearch’s world collaborative tree. When cousins or other contributors disagree, a well-written proof summary can make all the difference.

We’ll walk through the three types of genealogical proof documents: proof statements, proof summaries, and proof arguments. Then I’ll show you how to outline a solid proof summary, evaluate the evidence, correlate documents, write a clear conclusion, and upload your work to FamilySearch. I’ll also demonstrate how to add an Alert banner to an ancestor’s profile so that others know your proof document is available before making changes.

If you want a deeper dive, I recently completed a three-part series called “Finding Proof” inside the Genealogy TV Academy, where we explore proof statements, summaries, and arguments in greater detail. Academy members have full access to that series.

A handout for this episode is available for all eligible viewers. See the information below for how to get them.

If you’re ready to take your research skills to the next level, come join us at the Genealogy TV Academy where we learn smart research strategies, organization techniques, and evidence-based methods for breaking down brick walls. Whether you’re new to genealogy or working through long-standing challenges, the Academy can help you move further, faster, and factually.

I hope this episode helps you write your own proof summaries and navigate FamilySearch with confidence. Let’s get started.