Q. How much do genealogists trust the family trees posted on Ancestry.com?
A. I think it is most important to remember that the trees on ancestry are created by individuals. Individuals make mistakes and have different abilities and knowledge regarding research.
Every piece of information in a tree should have documentation behind it. Sometimes I suggest you review all the details in a tree closely. Make sure the information on the tree makes logical sense. At first, you should look for major and obvious mistakes.
If you find a number of obvious errors, you know this tree isn’t a good source. If I find a tree like this – I don’t spend any more time on it. I move on with the assumption that the facts in this tree are not reliable.
If you find a tree where a cursory overview shows that the facts seem to be in order and consistent, then your next step will be to take the time to go over the tree with more care and detail. Take the time to check the sources and review the documentation that is attached to the fact(s).
Above all, use these trees as a resource, not a source.
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