Guided Tree is a tool for new FamilySearch users to build their family tree by entering accurate or approximate ancestor information. It searches for matching deceased ancestors in Family Tree for linking. Living profiles remain private, while deceased profiles are public. Users can build their tree via the website or mobile app by following prompts to add personal and ancestor details, reviewing potential matches, and confirming connections. More help is available for research skills.
Guided Tree is an intuitive tool that helps new FamilySearch users begin building their family tree. FamilySearch searches for existing records of deceased ancestors in Family Tree to help link you with your ancestral lines. Be as accurate as possible when entering information. If you are unsure, enter approximate information.
Privacy information:
- Profiles of living persons added to Family Tree are private and can only be seen by the person who created the profile. Therefore, any profile you create for a living person can only be seen by you.
- Profiles of deceased persons added to Family Tree are public and can be seen by other FamilySearch users.
- For additional information about FamilySearch privacy measures, please see the Privacy Notice - FamilySearch.
Steps (website):
- Sign in to your new FamilySearch account.
- At the top of the homepage, click Build Your Tree.
- Follow the prompts on the screen to enter your sex and birth information.
- Follow the prompts to add the names and vital information about your ancestors.
- If FamilySearch finds a record with facts that match to a deceased ancestor you entered, review the information carefully to determine if it could be the same person.
- If you determine that a potential match is indeed your ancestor, click This is Him or This is Her. This ancestor and any ancestors they are connected to will then be connected to you in Family Tree.
- If you were unable to find a matching deceased ancestor already in Family Tree, FamilySearch can help. Click one of the options on the screen for more help:
- Click Learn how to find your ancestors in records to learn basic research skills.
If you do not need extra help at this time, click Go To Family Tree to view your tree. Continue to build your tree with information about your family.
Steps (Mobile app):
- Sign in to your new FamilySearch account on the Family Tree mobile app.
- Tap Get Started.
- Tap Continue and follow the prompts on the screen to enter your sex and birth information.
- Follow the prompts to add the names and vital information about your ancestors.
- Follow the prompts to add information about your ancestors. If you add a deceased family member, FamilySearch will look for potential matching profiles that already exist in Family Tree. Review these carefully before confirming it is your ancestor.
- If FamilySearch finds a record with facts that match to a deceased ancestor you entered, review the information carefully to determine if it could be the same person.
- If you determine that a potential match is indeed your ancestor, click This is Him or This is Her. This ancestor and any ancestors they are connected to will then be connected to you in Family Tree.