How to build a family tree

Family Tree Plus is a family tree resources site designed to help all levels of family historian, in how to build a family tree. The site contains loads of useful free information on how to build a family tree, split into sections to help you find the kind of information you need about building your family tree. The advantage of a family tree builder is that you don’t have to worry about the paper or the size. As you grow your family tree your builder grows with it. Many family tree builder tools have the ability to look at the family tree in different ways and allow you to present different type of information within the builder.


Need a Family Tree Template?

The Family Tree template section has a number of downloadable family tree template examples that can be used as an alternative to using family tree software or a family tree builder. The advantage of using a family tree template from our site is that many of them are fillable templates so that you can fill out your family tree on your computer or print off the family tree template and complete it manually. When you are done and you would like a large print up to A0 size you can simply email us the chart and we’ll send you a printed version of your family tree template.


Family Tree research

Starting with a solid foundation for your family tree research is important. Before you start it’s a good idea to understand the basics of Family tree research. There are hundreds of great publications and books to help you. It’s also advisable to select your family history research tools and methods up front, that way you can avoid rework later. Read more about family tree research.





Other kinds of family tree charts and family tree diagrams

Of course a tree is not the only way to represent your family. There are various forms of pedigree chart to depict your family relationships including a circular family tree diagram or concentric family tree chart, as well as the family group sheet. Each family tree diagram has its limitations - the biggest is the number of generations. Even concentric or semi circular family tree charts, which pack in a lot in are limited to at the most 7 generations and 5 is probably a more usable number in the case of many family tree diagrams. To download family tree charts and read more click the family tree charts link.


Printable family tree

Once you have your lineage worked out you may want to have a  tree print made. Depending on what you are trying to achieve, will determine the printable family tree style you choose. If the printable family tree is for display purposes matching colour shape and the size of the print is a good way to go. Printable trees can be created in various formats including PDF and various online family tree builder sites.