5 Ways To Create A Printable Pedigree Chart

Quick Links :

Creating a printable pedigree chart is a fun and rewarding way to visualize your family's history and connections. Whether you're a seasoned genealogist or just starting to explore your roots, a pedigree chart can be a valuable tool for organizing and sharing your research. In this article, we'll explore five different ways to create a printable pedigree chart, including options for both online and offline tools.

Understanding Pedigree Charts

Before we dive into the different methods for creating a pedigree chart, let's take a quick look at what a pedigree chart is and why it's useful. A pedigree chart is a type of family tree chart that shows the relationships between individuals in a family over multiple generations. It's typically organized in a tree-like structure, with the oldest generation at the top and the most recent generation at the bottom. Pedigree charts can be used to identify patterns and connections within a family, and to help researchers focus their investigation.

Method 1: Online Pedigree Chart Builders

One of the easiest ways to create a printable pedigree chart is to use an online pedigree chart builder. These tools allow you to enter your family information and generate a chart in a matter of minutes. Some popular online pedigree chart builders include:

• Ancestry.com's Pedigree Chart Builder
• FamilySearch.org's Pedigree Chart Tool
• MyHeritage.com's Family Tree Builder

These tools often offer a range of customization options, including different chart styles and the ability to add photos and other media.

Creating a Pedigree Chart with Ancestry.com

Ancestry.com's Pedigree Chart Builder is a powerful tool that allows you to create a customizable pedigree chart in just a few steps. Here's how to get started:

1. Log in to your Ancestry.com account and navigate to the Pedigree Chart Builder tool.
2. Enter the name of the individual you want to focus on, and select their birth and death dates.
3. Add the names of the individual's parents, grandparents, and other relatives.
4. Customize your chart by selecting a layout, adding photos, and choosing a color scheme.
5. Download your chart as a PDF or print it directly from the website.

Method 2: Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets

Another way to create a printable pedigree chart is to use a spreadsheet program like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets. These tools allow you to create a table-based chart that can be customized with different columns and rows.

Here's a step-by-step guide to creating a pedigree chart in Microsoft Excel:

1. Open a new spreadsheet in Microsoft Excel.
2. Set up a table with columns for the individual's name, birth date, death date, and relationships.
3. Enter your family information, starting with the oldest generation at the top.
4. Use Excel's formatting tools to customize your chart, including adding borders and shading.
5. Print your chart or save it as a PDF.

Using Excel Formulas to Automate Your Pedigree Chart

One of the benefits of using Microsoft Excel to create a pedigree chart is the ability to use formulas to automate certain tasks. For example, you can use a formula to calculate the number of generations between two individuals, or to identify common ancestors.

Here's an example of how to use a formula to calculate the number of generations:

1. Enter the following formula in the "Generations" column: =COUNTA(B2:B10)-1
2. This formula counts the number of non-blank cells in the range B2:B10, and subtracts 1 to get the number of generations.

Method 3: Specialized Genealogy Software

If you're serious about genealogy research, you may want to consider using specialized software designed specifically for creating and managing family trees. Some popular options include:

• FamilyTreeMaker
• Legacy Family Tree
• RootsMagic

These programs offer advanced features like source management, research logs, and DNA analysis, as well as the ability to create customized pedigree charts.

Creating a Pedigree Chart with FamilyTreeMaker

FamilyTreeMaker is a popular genealogy software program that allows you to create a customizable pedigree chart. Here's how to get started:

1. Open FamilyTreeMaker and select the individual you want to focus on.
2. Click on the "Pedigree" tab and select the "Chart" option.
3. Customize your chart by selecting a layout, adding photos, and choosing a color scheme.
4. Print your chart or save it as a PDF.

Method 4: Hand-Drawn Charts

If you prefer a more old-fashioned approach, you can create a hand-drawn pedigree chart using a piece of paper and a pen. This method allows you to add personal touches and creative flourishes to your chart.

Here's a step-by-step guide to creating a hand-drawn pedigree chart:

1. Start by drawing a large tree shape on your paper, with the oldest generation at the top.
2. Add the names of the individuals in each generation, using a different line for each person.
3. Use arrows or lines to connect the individuals and show their relationships.
4. Add photos, decorations, or other embellishments to make your chart more visually appealing.
5. Scan or photocopy your chart to create a digital version.

Tips for Creating a Hand-Drawn Pedigree Chart

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when creating a hand-drawn pedigree chart:

• Use a large piece of paper to give yourself plenty of room to work.
• Choose a pen or pencil that is easy to read and write with.
• Use different colors or symbols to differentiate between males and females, or to indicate different relationships.
• Don't be afraid to get creative and add personal touches to your chart!

Method 5: Online Templates

Finally, you can use online templates to create a printable pedigree chart. These templates are often available in Microsoft Word or PDF format, and can be customized with your family information.

Here's a step-by-step guide to creating a pedigree chart using an online template:

1. Search for "pedigree chart template" or "family tree template" online.
2. Choose a template that fits your needs and download it to your computer.
3. Open the template in Microsoft Word or a PDF viewer.
4. Enter your family information, starting with the oldest generation at the top.
5. Customize your chart by adding photos, changing the layout, and choosing a color scheme.
6. Print your chart or save it as a PDF.

Conclusion

Creating a printable pedigree chart is a fun and rewarding way to visualize your family's history and connections. Whether you use an online pedigree chart builder, Microsoft Excel, specialized genealogy software, a hand-drawn chart, or an online template, there are many different ways to create a customized chart that fits your needs. We hope this article has provided you with the inspiration and guidance you need to get started on your own pedigree chart project!

Call to Action

Now that you've learned about the different ways to create a printable pedigree chart, it's time to get started on your own project! Choose the method that works best for you, and don't be afraid to experiment and try new things. If you have any questions or need help along the way, feel free to leave a comment below. Happy charting!