Family Tree Builder Instructions

Welcome to the Nativa Genealogy Family Tree Builder.
This page will guide you step-by-step on how to use the tool, save your tree, download it, and manage your information.

Our goal is to make building your family history simple, organized, and enjoyable.

🌿 1. Getting Started

To use the Family Tree Builder, you must:

  1. Create a membership account

  2. Log in to your dashboard

  3. Open the page labeled “Family Tree Builder”

Once opened, you will see an empty workspace where you can begin adding relatives.

➕ 2. Adding a New Person (Box)

Click the “Add Person” button to create a new box.

A box will appear with fields for:

  • Name

  • Relationship (Mother, Father, Child, Cousin, etc.)

  • Optional notes

  • Any other details you want to add

You may add as many boxes as needed.

✏️ 3. Editing a Person’s Information

To edit any box:

  1. Tap or click directly on the box

  2. A text field will open

  3. Type the name and relationship

  4. Click outside the box to save the text automatically

You may update a box at any time.

🔄 4. Moving Boxes Around

To organize your tree:

  • Desktop: Click and drag any box to move it

  • Mobile: Hold your finger on the box for a moment, then slide it to the new location

Tip: Move boxes slowly on mobile for smoother dragging.

This allows you to design your tree layout the way you want it.

🔗 5. Connecting Family Lines (Coming Soon)

Your current version uses a free-form layout, but line connectors can be added in a future update.

If you want, we can integrate:

✔ Parent–child lines
✔ Siblings lines
✔ Grandparent connectors
✔ Marriage connectors

Just tell me when you’re ready.

💾 6. Saving Your Family Tree

Your changes save automatically when you click the “Save Tree” button.

The system saves your tree in your account so you can return anytime.

To load your saved tree:

  • Click “Load Tree”

  • Your previous boxes and layout will reappear

Important:
If you clear your browser data or log in from a different device, use “Load Tree” to restore your saved work.

🗑 7. Clearing Your Tree

If you want to start over:

  • Click “Clear Tree”

This removes all boxes from the screen but does not delete your saved version unless you save again afterward.

📥 8. Downloading Your Family Tree

You may download your tree as:

  • PNG Image

  • PDF File

This allows you to print your tree, email it, or store it for personal records.

Download buttons are available at the top of your tree builder.

📱 9. Mobile Users – Important Notes

The Family Tree Builder works on mobile devices, but:

  • Dragging boxes may be slightly slower

  • Landscape mode may give more space

  • Large trees are easier to work on using a tablet or desktop

For best results, use a laptop or desktop for complex layouts.

🔐 10. Your Privacy & Security

Your tree is:

  • Saved only to your account

  • Not visible to the public

  • Never shared or sold

  • Protected under our Privacy Policy

You maintain full control of your family information.

⭐ Need Help?

If you need assistance editing your tree, saving, or downloading:

📧 epierson@nativagenealogy.org

We respond within 24–48 business hour