Select Software and Import GEDCOM
1 hourChoose RootsMagic, Family Tree Maker, or Ancestry tree; import existing GEDCOM or start fresh.
Beginner1 week
Genealogy Software Setup
Complete guide for genealogy software setup — step-by-step workflow, tools, checklist, and expert tips to get started.
digital organizerscloud users
Workflow
Configure Source Templates and Citations
2 hoursSet up Evidence Explained citation templates for census, vital records, and DNA sources.
Organize Media and Document Folders
3 hoursCreate folder structure by surname; attach scans to person records with descriptive filenames.
Configure Automated Backup Schedule
1 hourSet weekly GEDCOM export and cloud sync; test restore from backup file.
Tools Used
- NotepadPrimary
Draft citation text and folder naming conventions before entering into genealogy software.
- Image CompressorPrimary
Optimize document scans for software attachment without exceeding file size limits.
- Date Difference CalculatorSupporting
Verify backup schedule intervals and time since last successful export.
- Age CalculatorReference
Validate imported GEDCOM date fields by checking calculated ages against known facts.
Checklist
0 / 6 completedLoading your checklist…
Setup
Configuration
Organization
Execution
Preservation
Maintenance
Reference Materials
Genealogy Software ComparisonTable
Key features by platform.
| Software | GEDCOM | Citation Quality | Cloud Sync |
|---|---|---|---|
| RootsMagic | Excellent | Templates | Optional |
| Family Tree Maker | Good | Good | Ancestry sync |
| Gramps | Excellent | Flexible | Manual |
| Legacy | Good | Good | FamilySearch |
Backup Frequency FormulaFormula
Risk of data loss ∝ days since last backup × changes per session — export after every research day.
GEDCOM StandardStandard
Export GEDCOM 5.5.1 for maximum compatibility; verify import on second software before deleting originals.
One Tree Rule
Maintain one master tree file — fragmenting across multiple programs creates conflicting data.
Citation First
Enter the source citation before the fact — software links are easier when source exists first.
Living Privacy
Mark living persons as private before syncing to Ancestry — public trees expose living data.
Safety Notes
- Never rely on a single copy of your tree — hard drive failure without backup destroys years of research.
- Review privacy settings before syncing trees online — living persons' data may become publicly visible.