Free Printable Family Tree Chart
Free printable family tree charts are available online to organize your research. A chart helps you navigate through the many generations of your ancestors.
Online Sources
Many genealogy websites offer free printable family tree charts. You can choose from a variety of layouts and types. Here are a few resources for finding a chart:
- Ancestry.com Download forms for free at Ancestry. To access Ancestry databases requires a subscription.
- Ancestor's A PBS series
- Family Search A project of the Mormon Church
- RootsWeb
Downloading Free Printable Family Tree Charts
File Format
The most common format for genealogy forms is the Portable Document Format, or PDF. You can view and print a PDF in Adobe Acrobat Reader. You can download Acrobat Reader for free from numerous sites, including the Adobe website. Most forms, however will not allow you to type into the PDF without special software.
Virus Protection
It is always a good idea to have a current version of an anti-virus program when downloading files from the Internet. While most sites are virus-free, it is a smart precaution to protect your computer from a virus or Trojan horse.
Form Folder
To keep your charts readily accessible, set up a file folder on your hard drive just to hold the forms. Navigate to the area where you want to add the folder and click "File." Then you will select "New" and "Folder." You'll be able to name the folder whatever you like. Be sure you put the folder in a location where you will easily find it.
Descriptive Name
When downloading, you will have the option to rename the file. Make sure you have a descriptive name for your chart so it will be easy to locate. Names like "Horizontal Pedigree Chart" or "5-Generation Tree" will help you quickly find the chart you want on your computer.
Tips for Printing
Check the Orientation
Some free printable family tree charts will have a horizontal, or landscape, orientation. Others will be more vertical, called letter orientation. When you print the form, be sure to select the correct orientation in the printer dialogue box. This will save time and prevent wasted paper.
Save Toner and Ink
Many printers have a draft option for printing. While this is not a good choice for photos or graphics, it will work well with a simple family tree chart. This will save a great deal of ink or toner over time.
You can also save expensive colored inkjet ink if the tree form only uses one color. Select "Black Only" or "Black and White" in the printer dialog box.
Print Extras
Print extras when you are printing any genealogy chart. You will have them ready when you need them without having to stop your research to print.
Use Color Paper
You can use color paper to organize your research. Print family tree charts on colored paper. Use one color for each family surname. You will be able to quickly identify which completed charts you need by using this color code.
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