By Lisa Stokes, AG^®

The accreditation process builds proficiency in genealogical research methodology, strengthens knowledge of a specific research region, and develops solid report writing skills. Successful ICAPGen^SM testing ensures a candidate is ready for professional level research. Creating a Personal Reference Guide to prepare for the Written Exams builds a foundation for ongoing expertise in the region.

What is a Personal Reference Guide?

A Personal Reference Guide, often abbreviated as PRG, is a compiled study guide that allows quick reference during research and testing. It can contain Quick Reference Sheets, Methodology Guides, Country Guides, State Guides, and other resources to aid the researcher.

Benefits

The benefits of creating a Personal Reference Guide to prepare for accreditation testing and client research are abundant and well worth the effort. Developing a Personal Reference Guide:

• Solidifies learning for an accreditation candidate by encouraging an effective study process
• Encourages gathering of new information, such as key resources and methodologies for the region, while studying for testing
• Builds confidence in research skills and regional knowledge
• Provides a solid foundation and knowledge of background and locality information about a narrowed location
• Provides an understanding of methodologies that work well in the region
• Allows for more effective client research time
• Creates a well-rounded researcher

Continued gathering of locality information over time creates an invaluable, time-saving resource to use for many years to come.

Using the Personal Reference Guide for Accreditation Testing

The ICAPGen Written Exams use an open-book testing format, which allows the candidate to consult online resources, reference books, and personal notes during the exams. The Personal Reference Guide can take many formats and contain many Resources.

Format: Prepare digital or physical Research Reference Guides or a combination of the two to use during testing.

Content: Collect sample documents, maps, links, and webinar syllabi for quick reference during testing. Create methodology research guides, country and state guides, and quick reference guides to solidify knowledge of the region.

Logistics: The candidate is required to download their PRG materials to the testing computer and log out of any cloud service. Sufficient time is allowed to download materials before the test begins. Personal computers, tablets, cloud services or phones are not permitted during the test. All materials referenced during the test must be accessed from the testing computer to protect the test’s integrity and prevent copying of the test.

Creating a Personal Reference Guide is valuable preparation for all genealogical work. A solid Personal Reference Guide will also ensure success in testing and provide a foundation for ongoing expertise in a chosen region.

Based on an article published in the Fall 2022 ICAPGen Study Group Newsletter. Read Lisa’s updated post, Level Up Your Research: Why You Need a Personal Reference Guide for Genealogy at Lisa Stokes Heritage Research.