How Do I Use the FTM Data Errors Report?

In order to use the Family Tree Maker Data Errors Report, you have to follow the simple steps, such as opening your tree, going to the publish workspace, selecting the data errors report, and generating the report as well. The Data Errors Report in Family Tree Maker (FTM) is a powerful tool designed to help you scan your genealogy data for inconsistencies, potential typing mistakes, and structural errors (like a birth date recorded after a parent’s death).

How Do I Use The Family Tree Maker Data Errors Report And Where To Find It?

Here are some of the steps given below with the help of which you can use the FTM Data Errors Report. Have a look at them one by one:- 

1. Open Family Tree Maker and load the family tree that you want to check.
2. Now, click Publish Workspace from the main menu.
3. Now select the “data errors report” from the report categories.
4. Now choose the individual or branches that you want to include in the report.
5. Now click on generate report in order to scan your tree for the potential errors.
6. Now review the report carefully and figure out the issues such as missing dates, relationship inconsistencies and invalid entries.
7. Now return to the relevant person or record within your tree and do the required corrections.
8. Now run the “data errors report” again to confirm that the issues have been resolved.

You can access this feature directly from the main workspace menu:

1. Go to the Publish workspace.
2. Under the Collections panel, click on Person Reports.
3. Select Data Errors Report and click Create Report.

How To Use The Report?

Here are some of the ways through which you can use the report. Have a look at them one by one:-  

Customize Your View: On the right-side panel, you can filter who to include (e.g., everyone or specific individuals), which specific types of errors to flag, and change how the report is sorted.

Spot Logical Flaws: It automatically flags timeline errors, such as a child born before their mother, a parent who was too young/old when a child was born, or dates like February 30th.

Review & Fix: The report lists the person’s name, their specific error, and any relevant dates. Click on the person in the report to jump directly to their profile, verify your sources, and make corrections.

Keep Your Tree Syncing: Using this report routinely is a great best practice before syncing your FTM software with Ancestry.

Conclusion!

The Data Errors Report is one of the most valuable maintenance tools in Family Tree Maker. By regularly reviewing and correcting flagged issues, you can improve the accuracy of your genealogy research, reduce inconsistencies, and keep your family tree ready for syncing and sharing. If you need any further assistance, our Family Tree Maker specialists can help with installation, backup restoration, media recovery, and Ancestry synchronization. 

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