How to Make a Family Tree

This practical guide covers the full process from planning to export. Use it if you are creating your first family tree or rebuilding an existing one with cleaner structure.

Step 1

List your core family members

Start with yourself, parents, siblings, spouse, and children. Then add grandparents and extended relatives.

Step 2

Collect key details and photos

For each person, gather full name, birth year, location, and one profile photo to make your chart easier to read.

Step 3

Choose a layout by your goal

Use vertical layouts for printable sheets and wide layouts for large family branches with many generations.

Step 4

Map relationships clearly

Connect parents, partners, and children with consistent lines. Keep sibling groups aligned on the same level.

Step 5

Review, refine, and export

Check for missing links, fix name consistency, and export as a high-quality image for sharing or printing.