Other Tips

Here are some quick tips to help you get started with using your computer to help you with genealogical research.  If you have a web site or a favorite tip you would like to see posted here, please send it to Gene Pennington, Research Director.

Please Note:  Some of the links on this page do not work.  This page is under construction.  Thank you for your patience.

• Using Graphics, Photographs and Images

Here are some web sites with some great information about graphics, photographs and images.  Includes details of the difference in computer graphic files, when to use which graphic file type and other useful hints.

• Computer Genealogy Software and Other Tips

Here are some websites to help you understand the many different genealogy computer software programs and other tips.

• Name Origins

This website offers some help understanding the origins of surnames.

• Common Sense Guide for GEDCOM Files

This is a quick and easy guide to use when working with GEDCOM files.

Using Graphics, Photographs and Images

Computer Genealogy Software and Other Tips

Common Sense Guide for GEDCOM Files

Note:  For more information about GEDCOM files, click here to go to the FAQ page.  Look for the question about GEDCOM files near the top.

• Always load a new GEDCOM into a separate blank database.

• Check the file for errors, and make notes of problems.

• Always run your genealogy software's problem report if it has one.

• Once you have cleaned up this much of the GEDCOM/Database, make a backupbefore proceeding.

• Now standardize the data into the format you have set for your database.  This includes:

• Identify how this data will fit into your database and where you plan tolink chains together.

• Determine BEFORE you do it, if you want to merge your GEDCOM with your existing database.  I suggest you do NOT unless you are very, very sure this is what you want.  I suggest you create a NEW database and import your new GEDCOM file into the new database.  Then you can select those records and information you want from the new database to bring into your existing database.

• IF you decide to merge the GEDCOM with your existing database, merge the data slowly, with Backup's before and after.  Test yourBackups.

• If you do not already have your own standards for your database, create onebefore proceeding.  Spend the time to make your data appear as you want itbefore adding other peoples data.