Question Home

Position:Home>Genealogy> What is the best software to make a genealogical tree?


Question:They have on the market something you can add pics? Thanks


Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: They have on the market something you can add pics? Thanks

the best software is the one that does the job for you. Like, what flavor of pie do you like?
One of the standards is PAF, which is from the LDS church, and is free. www.familysearch.org.
The basis of genealogy software is a database form, however, all the reputable ones should "exchange". Meaning.. PAF 'sends' the info into a generic file called a gedcom, and other programs can "import' that info into it.
Try the freebie (and no, it does not mean cheap/bare bones). You still have to do the research and input the data. Yes.. it is possible to download other files from the internet as gedcoms, and pull that into your records. I STRONGLY reccomend that you understand that you need documentation of facts, and merging someone else's work can be a risk. Keeping it as separate file is the best way.
Give the free program a run, and once you have some feel for what it does, you can test drive the other programs to see if you think they are worth purchasing. I have never switched.

I would like to know the answer to that also.

I don't know about software, but Ancestry.com has a great program that organizes your tree but also brings up hints and related items that match with others already in your tree. Also allows you to view the tree of a line that intersects with your family for cross-referencing. its about $25 a month and easy to use. the software will organize your tree but won't help you to build it.

I like Family Tree Maker - I have heard negative reviews about the 2008 update, though, so look for one of the older, "deluxe" editions that are still available through sites like Amazon.com.

Hope this helps.