Family-tree guide
Start with the people you know. Preserve how you know.
A useful family tree grows from careful conversations, clear sources and respect for living relatives—not from collecting the largest possible number of names.
Begin close to home
Start with yourself, parents, siblings and grandparents. Record names as each person uses them, including alternate scripts and former names where appropriate.
Ask for stories, not only dates
A place, occupation, migration, nickname or remembered ritual often explains more than a date alone. Ask permission before recording personal stories.
Keep the source beside the fact
Note whether information came from a certificate, photograph, family book, interview or another tree. Distinguish evidence from family tradition without dismissing either.
Respect living people
Collect only what the family record needs, explain who can access it and give people a way to correct or remove sensitive information.
Choose a steward
A trusted person or small group can review suggestions, resolve duplicates and keep exports and backups current so the record remains understandable over time.