How many records are enough to prove your family history?
One of the most misunderstood concepts in genealogy is Reasonably Exhaustive Research—the first standard of the Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS). In this lesson, I explain what it really means, why it matters, and how it helps you build stronger, evidence-based conclusions.
?? JOIN the GENEALOGY TV ACADEMY – Promo Code JULY26 for 33% off until July 17th, 2026. Click the link below to join today!
In this video you’ll learn:
• What “reasonably exhaustive research” actually means
• How to avoid stopping your research too soon
• The difference between primary and secondary information
• Direct, indirect, and negative evidence explained
• Why original records matter more than indexes
• How to know when you’ve done enough research
• A practical checklist you can use on every genealogy project
Whether you’re trying to prove a lineage, break through a brick wall, or simply become a better researcher, this lesson will help you think like a professional genealogist.
This video is adapted from a lesson inside the Genealogy TV Academy and is available free on YouTube for a limited time.
?? Resources Mentioned
• Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS)
• Mastering Genealogical Proof by Thomas W. Jones
• Genealogy TV Academy
If you enjoyed this video, please like, subscribe, and share it with another genealogist. It really helps support the channel!
FREE HANDOUT https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ES0H8zPvfxryY1YTIK_lMM6zmLEdhT88/view?usp=sharing
Learn how to use NC Ancestry for your North Carolina genealogy research. This guide walks you through the site to find your ancestors. Searching for records in North Carolina can...
Have you ever searched Ancestry® for an ancestor you know should be there… only to come up empty? The problem may not be your ancestor—it may be how you’re searching....
