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Step 1
Find a program that suits your need. There are different types of family tree software available. Some are basic and others have online help and search engines to guide you.
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Step 2
Make sure you get the most up-to-date package. Make sure it works on your computer. Buy the version for your country. Look for special features that come with the program like access to ancestry.com.
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Step 3
Install your software from the CD. Click on the family tree icon on your desktop to open the software. Read the included software manual and any help files. Some programs come with tutorials to help you with the program.
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Step 4
Visit the program website for information. Look at sites like familytreemaker.com or ancestry.com for more information (see Resources below). Watch the training video that comes with your software package. You can visit familytreemaker.com for a sample.
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Step 5
Gather all the names and dates of those you want to include in your family tree. Use the program to search for more info with the links provided. You can find missing data from online genealogy databases included in some packages.
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Step 6
Fill in the charts and prompts in your program. You put the names and dates of your family here. Pick the tree or charts you want to use and let the program put it all together. Make charts for each family. Let the program combine the charts into family trees.
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Step 7
Include maps of where your family lived, charts with special event data and photos of family members in your tree.
