Family Tree Search: How to Trace your Family Tree

A family tree is a representation of the family lineage in a specific format. In general, newest generations are arranged at the bottom, the older ones at the middle and the oldest at the top. Also, the members of the family tree can be represented in text form, graphical form or chart form. Tracing the family tree has been an interesting practice since ancient times. In earlier days, it was practiced for passing on rulership or position. A family tree also helps in reunion of family members who have been separated by a catastrophic event.

Family Tree and Genealogy

In scientific terms, finding ancestors and tracing a family tree is also referred to as genealogy search. People who specialize in researching family roots are known as genealogists. To be precise, a family tree search or genealogy search aims to find the family history and arrange the same in a systematic manner with reference to the dates (i.e. time), names and family relationships. Tracing your family tree is not as difficult as it sounds. It requires gathering information about family roots and arranging it as per a specific format. Let's discuss in brief about how to trace your family tree.

Tracing your Family Tree

As already mentioned, there are several methods of arranging a family lineage. Many people follow certain themes for making a family tree. For example, some may include all the members of the lineage (living or dead); whereas, others may prefer including only the living members. Hence, for constructing your family tree, first of all decide on the theme which you want to follow. Prior to making the family tree, you need to find ancestors and research family roots. You can accomplish this task by talking to your immediate family members and relatives.

You can also check for genealogy books or other family records, from which you can collect data for your family tree. Gather information regarding the time and place of birth, marriage, immigration and death (if applicable). In order to avoid confusion, always note down the details immediately. Once you are through with gathering information on family ancestors and family history, begin tracing your family tree by following any of the two formats, which are described below:

Descendant Chart: As the name suggests, a descendant chart represents a family lineage, in which individuals who are descendants of a common ancestor are depicted. If you are planning to follow this family tree chart, start from a progenitor at the top and write his wife's name and their children. Follow the trend continuously until you come to the descendants of the present time. Enter the corresponding date and place of birth, marriage and death (if applicable) under each name. On completion of tracing a descent chart, you will notice that the chart appears narrow at the top and wider at the base.

Ascendant Chart: Ascendant chart is exactly opposite to the descendant chart. For tracing family tree under this format, start with your name at the bottom and begin tracing your parents and ancestors. Include the place and date of birth, marriage and death (if applicable) under the names. This type of ascendant chart resembles the shape of a tree, with a narrow base and a wide top. Another option in writing your name on the left side and entering your ancestors name and data on the right side.

Well! These are some basic tips about family tree search and how to trace your family tree. Also, we have seen that according to the approaches, a family tree may be wider or narrower at the top. While entering the name and date, ensure that you enter the date and time accurately under each name. A simple alternative to this method is using the pre-printed pedigree charts, family group sheets or family tree software, which include ready-made charts for all the data. You can purchase these formats or download them from the sites that offer free services.