Methods
The Source Ladder: From Clue to Claim
This field note is part of the FOBA learning stream. It is meant to orient readers and point toward better source work.
Key points
- A clue is a starting point: a name, route, object, memory, map mark, or repeated family phrase.
- A lead is a clue connected to a searchable source set, such as deeds, newspapers, maps, court records, church minutes, or public-history interpretation.
- A claim needs source labels, dates, limits, and a plain statement of what the evidence does not prove.
Next steps
- Write the clue in one sentence before searching.
- List the source set that could support or challenge it.
- Move the claim only as far as the evidence allows, then mark the rest open.