For those of you who don’t know what the GPS is, in this context, it refers to the genealogical proof standard. The GPS has five components that help genealogists break through brick walls and make strong conclusions regarding tough research questions:

1. Reasonably exhaustive research
2. Complete source citations
3. Analysis and correlation of the evidence
4. Resolution of any conflicts
5. Written conclusion of your findings

The fifth element of the GPS is often a hang-up for genealogists. I’ve talked to many colleagues who really struggle with putting their thoughts down into words. We love the chase, we love finding those documents, we often do the analysis and correlation without even thinking about it…

Writing about our research seems to be a sticking point.

In this new series, I will be discussing ways I have overcome some of the issues with writing about my research. Some of the topics I will touch on will include (in no particular order):

• time management
• consistency with writing
• overcoming writer’s block
• blogging
• being organized with writing
• finding motivation
• genealogy standards related to writing
• writing about conflicting evidence
• writing styles
• and any other writing topic that comes to mind while writing this series.

I’ve written about citations before and so may not touch on that topic in this series. But you never know.

I’ve been enjoying writing and so I hope that my tips can help you work through your writing blocks.