Genealogy Software Setup

Workflow

1. 1

   Select Software and Import GEDCOM

   1 hour

   Choose RootsMagic, Family Tree Maker, or Ancestry tree; import existing GEDCOM or start fresh.

   Notepad

   Show tips (2)
2. 2

   Configure Source Templates and Citations

   2 hours

   Set up Evidence Explained citation templates for census, vital records, and DNA sources.

   Notepad

   Show tips (2)
3. 3

   Organize Media and Document Folders

   3 hours

   Create folder structure by surname; attach scans to person records with descriptive filenames.

   Image CompressorNotepad

   Show tips (2)
4. 4

   Configure Automated Backup Schedule

   1 hour

   Set weekly GEDCOM export and cloud sync; test restore from backup file.

   Date Difference CalculatorNotepad

   Show tips (2)

Tools Used

• Notepad
  Primary

  Draft citation text and folder naming conventions before entering into genealogy software.

• Image Compressor
  Primary

  Optimize document scans for software attachment without exceeding file size limits.

• Date Difference Calculator
  Supporting

  Verify backup schedule intervals and time since last successful export.

• Age Calculator
  Reference

  Validate imported GEDCOM date fields by checking calculated ages against known facts.

Reference Materials

• 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.

Related Scenarios

• Family Tree Research Start
  GenealogyBeginner4 tools
• Dna Test Integration Guide
  GenealogyIntermediate4 tools
• Family Reunion Research Guide
  GenealogyIntermediate4 tools