If you use Family Tree Maker (FTM) to build and organize your family history, you already know how powerful it is. But did you know you can save hours of time and boost productivity using simple keyboard shortcuts and smart workflow tips?
In this guide, we’ll cover the most useful Family Tree Maker keyboard shortcuts and practical productivity tips to help you work faster, stay organized, and get more done with less effort.
Why Keyboard Shortcuts Matter in Family Tree Maker
Using keyboard shortcuts isn’t just about convenience—it’s about efficiency. With just a few key presses, you can:
- Navigate between family views quickly
- Add or edit individuals without clicking multiple menus
- Save or print reports instantly
- Reduce repetitive mouse movements and strain
- Focus more on research, not navigation
When you master these shortcuts, you’ll notice your workflow becomes smoother and more enjoyable.
Most Useful Family Tree Maker Keyboard Shortcuts
Here are the top keyboard shortcuts every Family Tree Maker user should know:
1. General Shortcuts
| Action | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Open a new tree | Ctrl + N |
| Open an existing tree | Ctrl + O |
| Save your work | Ctrl + S |
| Print a report or chart | Ctrl + P |
| Close Family Tree Maker | Alt + F4 |
2. Editing Shortcuts
| Action | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Add a new person | Ctrl + Shift + N |
| Edit selected person | Ctrl + E |
| Delete selected person | Del |
| Undo last action | Ctrl + Z |
| Redo an undone action | Ctrl + Y |
3. Navigation Shortcuts
| Action | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Switch to Tree view | Ctrl + T |
| Switch to Person view | Ctrl + Shift + P |
| Switch to Places view | Ctrl + L |
| Switch to Media view | Ctrl + M |
| Switch to Sources view | Ctrl + R |
4. Research and Search Shortcuts
| Action | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Open Find dialog | Ctrl + F |
| Search next occurrence | F3 |
| Open Web Search tab | Ctrl + W |
| Refresh web search results | F5 |
Family Tree Maker Productivity Tips
1. Organize Your Data Smartly
Keep your genealogy clean and consistent:
- Use consistent name formats (First Last or Last, First).
- Always enter birth and death dates in the same format (e.g., DD-MM-YYYY).
- Add source citations immediately after adding new information.
This saves time and prevents confusion later.
2. Back Up Regularly
Use Ctrl + S frequently to save your progress.
Also, schedule automatic backups in Family Tree Maker’s settings to avoid losing valuable family data due to system crashes or updates.
3. Use the Plan Workspace Effectively
Before starting your session:
- Open the Plan workspace to set clear goals.
- Track tasks or research topics.
- Mark completed items to stay organized.
This habit keeps your genealogy work structured and purposeful.
4. Sync with Ancestry.com Smartly
If you use Ancestry integration, remember to:
- Sync during low internet activity times for faster results.
- Review sync reports carefully to avoid data duplication.
- Always back up before syncing to prevent overwriting important records.
5. Customize Your Workspace
You can improve visibility and workflow by:
- Adjusting font sizes and color themes for comfort.
- Using shortcut toolbars for frequently used features.
- Creating custom views for specific family branches.
This makes your workspace more personal and efficient.
Bonus Tip: Learn One Shortcut Each Day
Instead of trying to memorize all shortcuts at once, focus on learning one or two daily. In just a week, you’ll notice faster navigation and a smoother workflow.
For example:
- Day 1: Learn
Ctrl + Sto save. - Day 2: Try
Ctrl + Shift + Nto add a new person. - Day 3: Practice
Ctrl + Tto switch to Tree view.
Within a month, you’ll use Family Tree Maker like a pro!
Conclusion
Mastering Family Tree Maker keyboard shortcuts and productivity habits can transform the way you manage your genealogy projects. Whether you’re organizing records, building charts, or syncing data online, these small changes create big efficiency gains.
Start by applying just a few of these shortcuts today — and watch how much smoother your family research becomes!