How to View Gedcom Files
GEDCOM is an acronym that stands for Genealogical Data Communications. It is a database file type developed by the Family History Department of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Family history researchers use GEDCOM files to share genealogical information, such as family trees or pedigree charts.
A GEDCOM is a generic file format that can be used by most family history software programs, including PAF and Family Tree Maker. GEDCOM files end in the extension ".ged."
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Instructions
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Save the GEDCOM file to your computer.
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Launch your personal genealogical software program.
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From the program's main menu, select "File," then "Open," "Import" or "Import GEDCOM."
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Locate the GEDCOM file you previously saved to your computer. Select it and click "Open" or "Import."
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The program will prompt you to create a new database for the imported GEDCOM file. Name the database and click "Save" or "Import."
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A dialogue box may appear, notifying you the file has been imported. Click "OK." You should now be able to view the GEDCOM in your genealogical software program.
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Tips & Warnings
When you import the new GEDCOM, your program may ask if you would like to merge the file with an existing database. Select this option if you would like to eliminate any duplicate information the two databases may share.
If you do not own any genealogical software, you can still view the GEDCOM by downloading free GEDCOM viewing software from the Internet.
Scan all GEDCOM files for viruses before opening.
