One very handy feature of the Highland HomePage database structure is the ability to select an individual (non-living only) and generate a colorful visual representation of that person’s direct ancestors for several generations. The database tool is known as a fan chart, and here is an example of how to use it.

First, utilize the basic name-search tools to focus on a particular person of interest. In this example, I selected my deceased mother as the starting point. Once the record is opened in the default “Individual” tab view, click on the “Ancestors” tab as cirled in the screenshot below. Then select the secondary tab labeled “Fan Chart”.

A fan chart of ancestors will be displayed, as shown below. By default the fan chart will illustrate four generations. However, you can reset the number of generations to display (up to a maximum of ten) by clicking the “Generations:” drop-down number. In this example, I set the chart to produce five generations.

Once you have created a fan chart with the number of generations you want, you will probably want to save or print it. That is easy enough to do… First, the chart can be saved to your computer as a PDF file by clicking the “PDF” secondary tab; as with all PDF downloads, you should give it a meaningful filename and specify the file folder where it should be stored. If you prefer to simply print the chart, just click Print as shown in the highlighted section of the screen. Oh, yes… you can also share the screen display with others via e-mail or social media!