Can you resist a good research discovery?
Decision making lies at the heart of every genealogical process: which record set to look at, how to search, and how to interpret what we find – a delicate dance between the joy of discovery and the battle with biases as we judge the evidence before us.
Through questions, short tasks and discussion in this interactive workshop, we’ll…
- look at how we make decisions in family history research;
- hunt down the genealogical marshmallows in our work - the points where the tempting promise of a new discovery might sway our judgment;
- identify common cognitive biases, explore how they can influence us and how we might combat them;
- revitalise our genealogical thinking for the digital age!
Booking this event:
- Gold Members: Included in Membership. Book a spot to watch live. No pre-booking required to view the recording, which will be available in your video library until 16 November 2025.
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Not a Gold Member yet? Existing members get your upgrade price here. Non-members, find out more about Gold here.
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Non and Standard Members: Recording available for one month when you pre-book.
Click here for information about our events. Contact events@sog.org.uk if you have any questions.

About the Speaker
Sophie Kay
From DNA to historical maps, from research methods to historical occupations, Dr. Sophie Kay is a professional genealogist and geneticist at Khronicle® (www.khronicle.co.uk) who tackles all manner of family history research challenges from the medieval era to modern day. She’s the Ancestry and Genealogy Expert for popular archaeology show, Time Team, and the Scientist in Residence for The Mixed Museum, where she delivers educational sessions and content in genetic genealogy. A qualified research scientist, Sophie is also a Member of AGRA, a UK organisation of professional genealogists, and works on a variety of projects in both DNA and archival research for private clients and public organisations. Sophie’s family history blog can be found at The Parchment Rustler (www.parchmentrustler.com), where she shares tips, tricks and strategies for making the most of your ancestral research journey.