One way to present a genealogical research or other information about the relationships between the various members of a family is to create a family tree. This tool can make the viewer understand very clearly how the various individuals that make up a family are connected to each other and help trace the traits or health problems they have in common. The main challenge in designing a family tree is to determine its size before adding the data, so that you don't run out of space without adding all the necessary information. Here are some tips for drawing a family tree.
Steps
Step 1. Decide what information you want to include
Some family trees contain only the names of the components. Others include dates and / or places of birth and death, information on marriages, health status, medical conditions and even photographs. The design and shape of your tree will depend on how much information you intend to include.
Step 2. Determine the vertical dimension of the tree
- Draw an example box containing the information you want to enter, using an apical ancestor as evidence. Make several photocopies of the box, then cut them out to use as templates.
- Separate the sample tiles you created as if they represented three different generations. Normally the older generation goes to the top of the family tree, while the later ones are placed below. This way you will have an idea of the space to be inserted between each generation.
- Measures the distance from the top of the first generation sample box to the start of the second generation connected sample box.
- Multiply this distance by the number of generations you want to include in your family tree and you will get the overall height of your tree.
Step 3. Determine the horizontal size of the tree
- Arrange the pattern by placing the sample boxes side by side, as if they represent brothers of the same generation.
- Measure the distance from the left side of the first sample box to the left side of the second.
- Multiply this distance by the number of people who make up the largest generation. This is the minimum width of your family tree.
- Consider adding additional horizontal spaces to be able to extend the tree later. It is not uncommon to discover new siblings or spouses of ancestors, even when the project is at an advanced stage.
Step 4. Decide which material you would like to use to make your tree
- Use sheets of paper or cardstock that are large enough for smaller trees.
- Use food wrapping paper or the back of wrapping paper for large trees.
- Use a smooth sheet or canvas to paint for even larger trees.
Step 5. Enter the information of each family member in your family tree
You can write them directly on the material of your choice, or print them, cut them out and insert them separately.
Advice
- You could also decorate the paper with images or stickers.
- Most family tree building software specially offers a family tree in the print options. If family history information is in a database, you may not even need to draw the tree.
