State the objective and scope
Open with the exact research question, relevant people, place and time boundaries, and any limits on hours, repositories, DNA access, or client authorization.
Summarize research performed
Describe meaningful searches and sources, including important negative or inconclusive searches when they affect the conclusion.
Separate findings from analysis
Report what each source says, then explain how those pieces relate. Avoid turning a list of documents into a conclusion without correlation.
Address conflicts
Material contradictions should be visible and resolved or explicitly left unresolved. Do not silently choose the date, name, or parent that fits best.
Conclude at the strength the evidence supports
State what is supported, what is probable or tentative, what remains unknown, and which next actions would most efficiently test remaining alternatives.