GEDCOM File Format

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The GEDCOM file format is the worldwide standard for storing and sharing genealogical information. It is supported by all major family tree programs, like Family Tree Maker, Personal Ancestral File, and of course TUFaT!

GEDCOM stored information in a flat-file database, with structure being defined in the form of "levels". The level of any particular line is indicated by the integer at the front of the line, for example:

0 INDI
  1 BIRT
     2 DATE 12 MAY 1920
  1 DEAT
     2 DATE 1960

I won't get into a full description of what GEDCOM is and its various rules, since the subject is covered in depth in numerous online resources. Click here for a full description of the GEDCOM file format, syntax, and grammer from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, who have some of the best genealogical records in the world.

So, why is GEDCOM important for TUFaT? Well, if you have previously created a family tree using some other program, you can import it into TUFaT by converting your tree to the GEDCOM format, then clicking the "Import GEDCOM" link under the "Restore" header.

For most small trees, the top-most import option should work. If you have an extremely large GEDCOM file, you may need to split into multiple chunks and upload the chunks separately. GEDCOM files typically have the .ged file extension.

Besides importing your GEDCOM file, you can export it for use in a desktop genealogy application. Click on the Export GEDCOM link in the Backup section, fill out some basic information, and click Submit. If you intend to later import the file into Personal Ancestral File, you should click the "PAF Compatible" checkbox. The screenshot of Textpad with my own exported .ged file is shown below.