Guide
How to Make a Family Tree
Making a family tree is easier when you follow a clear process and use the right template. The goal is not just to collect names, but to create a clean, readable result that works well when printed and displayed.
1. Gather your family information
Start by collecting names, birth dates, and relationships. Begin with immediate family, then expand outward. You do not need everything at once. Even a partial tree is enough to get started.
2. Choose the right family tree structure
Before selecting a template, decide what kind of structure you need. A standard family tree works for most people, while pedigree charts are better for direct-line ancestry and fan charts work for compact visual layouts.
Compare family tree types →3. Select the right template
Choose a template based on how many generations you actually want to include. Most beginners should start with 4 or 5 generations to keep the layout clean and manageable. For people that have already much larger ancestry research done it makes more sense to go a head with 7, 8, 9 or even 10 generation family tree templates.
4. Add your information
Use an editable PDF template to type in names and details before printing. This creates a cleaner final result and makes it easier to fix mistakes.
5. Print and finalize
Once your family tree is complete, print it for display. Many templates are designed specifically for framing, so choosing the right layout early helps the final result look more polished.
Choose the right template type
The template you choose has a bigger impact than most people expect. It determines how readable your family tree is and how easy it is to complete.
Family Tree Templates
The most flexible option. Includes layouts from 4 to 10 generations, with editable, vintage, divided, and special formats.
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Pedigree Charts
Best for direct-line ancestry and genealogy research. A more structured chart format.
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Family Tree Fan Charts
A compact radial layout. Works well for display-focused results.
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Recommended starting point
For most people, a 4 or 5 generation editable family tree template is the best place to start.
Choose a family tree type
Different family tree formats solve different problems
Family Tree Templates
This is the broadest and most flexible category. It includes standard family tree layouts from 4 to 10 generations, plus vintage and divided layout styles.
Best for
General family history displays, printable wall art, framed family trees, and most first-time users.
Pedigree Charts
Pedigree Charts are more structured and lineage-focused. They are especially useful when the goal is to trace direct ancestry in a chart format.
Best for
Direct-line ancestry research, genealogy workflows, and users who prefer a more traditional chart structure.
Family Tree Fan Charts
Family Tree Fan Charts use a radial layout instead of a standard branching tree. They are more compact and visually distinctive than most other formats.
Best for
Display-focused projects, compact multi-generation charts, and users who want a more distinctive printed result.
Other Research Templates
This category includes supporting genealogy tools such as Ancestor Chart, Family Unit Sheet / Card Template, and Brick Wall Problem Solving Template.
Best for
Research organization, family unit documentation, and solving difficult genealogy problems.
Genealogy workflow
From family research to a completed family tree
1. Collect Family Information
Start by gathering names, photographs, birth dates, census records, and stories from relatives.
Read more →2. Organize Ancestors
Group family lines, surnames, and generations before deciding how to visualize the information.
Read more →3. Choose a Chart Format
Different genealogy charts are designed for different research and presentation goals.
Read more →4. Build and Preserve
Insert all details & turn your family history into printable keepsakes, wall displays, and long-term archival documents.
Read more →Common Family Research Mistakes
Genealogy research becomes easier and more accurate when common mistakes are avoided early
Mistake 1: Relying only on random internet resources
Many online family trees and resources contain copied information without source verification or historical documentation. It is always important to make your own verifications.
Mistake 2: Skipping family interviews
Relatives often hold photographs, stories, and records that are unavailable in public archives. Many unfortunately realize this too late, take action before time has passed.
Mistake 3: Using the wrong tools
Different genealogy tools are designed for different research and presentation goals. Firts you need to figured out what it is you want to achieve, then decide what kind of tool, chart or template supports your goals.
Mistake 4: Not organizing sources
Without organized research logs and records, genealogy projects become difficult to verify and expand later. It can be massive undertaking to figure out sources from the past when you no longer remember where the information was retrieved.
Family tree building advice
Avoid common problems before building your family tree
Trying to build too many generations at once
Starting with too many generations and creating a crowded, hard-to-read layout. Large charts can look impressive, but empty spaces quickly make the final result feel unfinished.
Using non-editable templates too early
Avoid using static templates, use an editable template from the start. You will appreciate this decision later as making corrections is much easier later on.
Blindly choosing appearance over research goals
Starting with a decorative layout when the real need is structured ancestry research. Never choose a template only based on appearance instead of usability, consider your goals.
Selecting more generations than you can actually fill
Choosing the deepest possible generation count before checking how much family information is actually known. Do not make this common template mistake because it can make your display item look empty and un-finished.
Trying to include everyone in the first version
Trying to include every relative in the first version instead of starting with a clean core family tree. Do not try to finalize your family research before creating any display items, often you never actually finalize it but the research just goes on.
Using research charts for decorative display without checking readability
Do not use a research chart as a wall-art gift without checking readability. Research-focused layouts can be practical, but decorative family trees usually work better for framing and display.
Ready to create your family tree?
The next step is choosing a template that matches your needs. Start with a simple generation count and expand later if needed.
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Related pages
Continue exploring
Family Tree Types Explained
Compare the main family tree formats before choosing one.
Best Family Tree Template for Beginners
A good starting point if you are unsure which template is easiest.
Family Tree Templates
Browse the main template category with the broadest range of options.
Related tools
Continue with tool instead of printable PDF template
Frequently asked questions
What is the easiest way to make a family tree?
The easiest way is to start with a simple editable template, fill in known information, and expand gradually rather than trying to build everything at once.
How many generations should a family tree have?
Most people should start with 4 or 5 generations. Larger trees are possible, but in that case you should already have pretty extensive research done in advance.
What is the best template for beginners?
A 4 or 5 generation editable family tree template is usually the best starting point because it balances simplicity and useful depth.
Should I use a pedigree chart or a family tree template?
Use a family tree template for general use and display. Use a pedigree chart when focusing on direct ancestry research.