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5-Generation Ancestor Chart Template
An ancestor chart traces one person’s direct line backward — you, your parents, four grandparents, eight great-grandparents, and sixteen great-great-grandparents. This template lays out all five generations in a tall pedigree structure that matches standard genealogy research practice, ready to fill in as your research progresses.
Template Preview
This is the exact layout that opens in the editor.
What’s Included
- ✓Five generations of direct ancestors pre-placed
- ✓A tall vertical pedigree layout that reads top-down
- ✓Editable name and date fields on all 31 card slots
- ✓High-resolution export for printed research charts
Best For
- →Genealogy research following one direct bloodline
- →Filling in blanks as you discover each ancestor
- →Pedigree charts in the standard research format
How to Use This Template
- 1
Start at the bottom
The youngest generation is the person the chart is about — usually you or your child.
- 2
Work upward
Fill in parents, then grandparents. Unknown ancestors can stay as placeholder cards until you find them.
- 3
Export your research
Print the chart and keep adding to it as your genealogy research uncovers new names.
FAQ
What is the difference between an ancestor chart and a family tree?
An ancestor chart follows only the direct bloodline backward — no siblings, aunts, or cousins. It is the standard format for genealogy research.
Can I go back more than five generations?
Yes — add parents to any top-generation card and the chart extends.
How many names does a full 5-generation chart hold?
Up to 31: 1 + 2 + 4 + 8 + 16 ancestor slots.