Genealogical research needs effective tools to store, organize, and share family tree information. One of these tools is the GEDCOM file format, an international standard for the exchange of genealogical data between programs and platforms. It enables users to transfer their research easily without losing critical details. Whether you are a new genealogist or a seasoned one, learning about GEDCOM files can greatly improve your research effectiveness. This article will take you through how to upload and download GEDCOM files on Ancestry, as well as pointing out their main advantages.
What is a GEDCOM File?
A GEDCOM (Genealogical Data Communication) file is a generic format that enables genealogy researchers to move their family tree data between different genealogy software programs without any hitches. It guarantees that names, dates, relationships, and sources are not lost during transfer.
Uploading a GEDCOM File
Here are the steps to upload a GEDCOM file on Ancestry:
- Log in to Your Account: From your desired Ancestry account, log in to where you’ll be uploading the file.
- Select Import Section: In the window, look for the “Upload GEDCOM” choice or under your “Tree Management” or “Import Tree” tab.
- Select GEDCOM File: Click and select your GEDCOM file from your computer.
- Begin Upload: Click the “Upload” button and then follow the instructions on the page.
- Review and Confirm: Review the imported data for accuracy once uploaded.
Download a GEDCOM File
To download a GEDCOM file from Ancestry, do the following:
- Open Your Family Tree: Select the family tree or the profile you wish to download
- Find the Export Option: Click the Tree Settings or Export tree
- GEDCOM Format: There should be an option to download the file in the GEDCOM format.
- Download the File: Press the download button and save the file to a location of your choice.
- Access the File: After downloading, the file can be imported into other genealogy programs.
Advantages of Uploading and Downloading GEDCOM Files
Uploading and downloading GEDCOM files provides several advantages, including:
- Collaboration: It is easy to share your family tree with relatives, and they can add to and supplement your research.
- Backup: Have a safe backup of your family tree information in the event of data loss by accident.
- Integration: Provide smooth compatibility with various genealogy platforms and programs.
- Portability: Easily transfer your family tree to a different genealogy program.
Conclusion
Mastering the process of uploading and downloading GEDCOM files can greatly enhance your genealogy research experience. By efficiently transferring data, you can safeguard years of research and collaborate with fellow genealogists effortlessly. Ensuring that your family tree remains accurate and updated will help future generations explore their heritage with ease.
FAQs Section!
Yes, you may edit a GEDCOM file in a word processor or genealogy program before uploading.
No, Ancestry doesn’t support direct editing of a GEDCOM file. Edit it prior to uploading.
Ancestry may pick up duplicate entries, but checking the data once imported is a good idea.
Every genealogy program except the most basic of genealogy programs has some sort of mechanism that allows for GEDCOM file merges prior to your uploads to Ancestry.
Ancestry does have file size limits on uploads from a GEDCOM, as per their most recent spec info online.
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