GEDCOM 8: To Merge or not to Merge
 
Fig 6.16 Append file

Options include:

  • Display merge report. Which gives a summary of possible errors;
  • Merge matching information; (our choice)
  • Append only (no merge); appends the source file to the destination file, setting up a need to merge duplicated individuals at a later time.
Fig 6.17  Merge individuals

Merge matching information displays two columns of information about two apparent matching individuals.  The problem is to carefully check the differences and decide to Merge or Don't merge; especially check the parents and the birth date. In the case illustrated to the right, the information appears to be about the same person therefore we will select Merge.

The window moves on to display the next set of information about the next person in the merge until all information is processed.  Finally the following two windows will appear one after the other, they give the user the opportunity to examine the merge more closely before closing Family Tree Maker and thus setting the result as permanent.  Once FTM is closed it is not possible to undo a merge.
 
Fig 6.18  Merge report
Fig 6.19   Undo
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