If it's in print - it must be true! You might get lucky and find a genealogy book that has been compiled on your ancestors, but just because it is in print does not mean it is true! Errors can creep in due to research that has not been completed, errors in transcriptions, and other inaccurate sources. Ask yourself these questions:
Who is the author?
When and Where was the work published?
Are the sources cited by the author?
2. All of the records I need are online! While you can locate many records for your
family online, not everything is online. Visiting or contacting your local genealogy
library or genealogy
society may get you access to city directories, church registers,
microfilmed copies of newspapers and, quite possibly, a family book containing
information on your family.
3. Well, you have located 423 family trees online for your family, so it must be
correct! They all have the same information! An online family tree is only as good as
the creator's information. When you receive a hint on your family tree, carefully
research each and every tip.
4. The courthouse burned! This is not 100% accurate. Yes, fires, floods, and other
disasters did occur. If you have the time, dig a little deeper into the remaining
records. You may find reconstructed records. Check the surrounding counties as
well. Your ancestor's information could be stored there.
5. My ancestors were mostly illiterate! By 1870, about 90% of all Americans were
found to be able to read and write, so don't give up on finding old letters and other
handwritten documents.
Remember, history was not always the way we think it was. By learning more and
keeping our eyes open, we may get past our errors and make a new discovery
into our family research.