If you’re a dedicated genealogist using Family Tree Maker (FTM), you know the GEDCOM format is the gold standard for sharing and backing up your family tree data. But what happens when you need to import a GED file in FTM—especially after a recent compacting session to slim down your database or merging duplicate individuals to clean up entries? This common scenario can feel daunting, but it’s simpler than it seems. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process with clear, actionable steps tailored for FTM users, ensuring your ancestry details transfer smoothly without hiccups. Whether you’re recovering from a file optimization or consolidating research from multiple sources, learning how to import a GED file in FTM will save you time and frustration.
Why Import a GED File in FTM After Compacting or Merging?
Before diving into the how-to, let’s address the “why” behind this task. Compacting your FTM file is like decluttering your digital attic—it removes redundant data, shrinks file sizes, and boosts performance, but it can sometimes strip away certain attachments or require a fresh import to restore full details. Similarly, merging individuals (a powerful FTM feature for uniting duplicate ancestors) might leave you with a streamlined tree that needs external GED files to fill in gaps from collaborative research or legacy backups.
By importing a GED file in FTM, you can seamlessly reintegrate lost notes, sources, or media references without starting from scratch. This approach preserves your tree’s integrity while adapting to changes from compacting or merging. Pro tip: Always back up your current FTM file before importing to safeguard against any unexpected overlaps.
Step-by-Step: How to Import a GED File in FTM
Ready to get hands-on? Follow these tailored instructions for Family Tree Maker (based on the latest versions like FTM 2019 and beyond). We’ll assume you’re working on a Windows or Mac setup, but the core process is consistent.
1. Prepare Your GED File for Import
Start by locating your GEDCOM file (.ged extension) on your computer. If this stems from compacting, ensure the file was exported recently to capture post-compaction data. For merging scenarios, verify the GED includes only the individuals you want to add—use FTM’s export tools to generate a targeted file if needed.
- Double-check the file size: Large GEDs (over 50MB) may take longer to process.
- Scan for compatibility: FTM supports GEDCOM 5.5 and 7.0 standards, but older formats might need conversion via free online tools (avoid uploading sensitive data).
2. Launch FTM and Access the Import Function
Open Family Tree Maker and select your active tree (or create a new one if testing post-merge imports).
- Navigate to the File menu at the top.
- Hover over Import and choose GEDCOM or Import from File. This opens the import dialog, signaling FTM to prepare for new data influx.
If you’re importing after compacting, consider creating a duplicate tree first: Go to File > Manage Trees > Duplicate Tree to experiment safely.
3. Select and Load Your GED File
In the file browser window:
- Browse to your GED file’s location (e.g., Downloads or a dedicated genealogy folder).
- Highlight the .ged file and click Open. FTM will begin parsing the content, displaying a progress bar for larger files.
Watch for warnings: If duplicates arise from merging history, FTM may prompt to resolve them automatically—opt for “Merge” to align with your cleanup efforts.
4. Review and Customize the Import Settings
FTM’s import wizard shines here, letting you fine-tune what enters your tree.
- Map Fields: Confirm person names, dates, and relationships align correctly. Post-compacting imports might show minor mismatches—adjust manually if notes or sources appear garbled.
- Handle Media: GED files don’t embed photos, but FTM can link to referenced files. Ensure media paths are updated if your structure changed during merging.
- Options Tab: Enable “Import living individuals” if applicable, and set privacy flags to match your tree’s rules.
Click Import to proceed. For trees over 10,000 individuals, allocate 5-10 minutes and avoid multitasking to prevent slowdowns.
5. Verify and Finalize Your Imported Data
Once complete, FTM notifies you of successes (e.g., “X individuals added”).
- Switch to Person view and search for imported names to spot-check facts.
- Run a Tree Report (under Publish > Reports) to audit for inconsistencies, especially after merging where relationships might need tweaking.
- If compacting was the trigger, compare file sizes pre- and post-import to ensure efficiency gains stick.
Troubleshooting Tip: If the import fails, check FTM’s error log (Help > Check for Updates first, as patches fix GED parsing bugs). Common fixes include closing other genealogy apps or restarting FTM.
Advanced Tips for Seamless GED Imports in FTM
To elevate your workflow beyond basics:
- Batch Imports: For multiple GEDs from merged projects, import one at a time and use FTM’s Merge Trees tool afterward for consolidation.
- Post-Import Cleanup: Leverage FTM’s Find Duplicates feature to polish any artifacts from the process—ideal after compacting-induced restructures.
- Backup Best Practices: Schedule weekly exports to GED via File > Export > GEDCOM, naming files with dates (e.g., “SmithTree_2025-10-29.ged”) for easy recovery.
By integrating these habits, importing a GED file in FTM becomes a proactive step in robust genealogy management.
Conclusion: Empower Your Family Tree with Confident Imports
Mastering how to import a GED file in FTM opens doors to richer, more accurate family histories, whether you’re rebounding from compacting optimizations or weaving in merged individual data. With these steps, you’ll handle transfers like a pro, keeping your tree vibrant and error-free. Got a unique twist on your import journey? Share in the comments below—we love hearing from fellow FTM enthusiasts!
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