FamilySearch Downloads

FamilySearch offers many helpful documents and products to help you with your family history research. Here is a list of the materials that are available to download for free.

Software: Personal Ancestral File

Personal Ancestral File (PAF) is a Windows-based genealogical management program for home computers. This program helps users organize their family history records. It can produce, either on screen or on paper, pedigree charts, family group records, and other reports.

Personal Ancestral File Version 5 (English) Also available in; 中文 (Chinese) Deutsch (German) 日本語 (Japanese) 한국어 (Korean) Svenska (Swedish)

Personal Ancestral File Version 4 (English) Also available in; Français (French) Deutsch (German) Português (Portuguese) Español (Spanish)

'''Beginning July 15, 2013, PAF will be retired and will no longer be available for download or support. '''For full details and for information on alternative products, please visit http://familysearch.org/PAF.


 * PAF and Other Genealogical Software

Basic Forms and Charts



A one-page guide outlining the four basic steps to starting your family history research. Also includes a blank family tree with space to fill in information about your ancestors.

Pedigree Chart

A blank chart with space to fill in names, dates, and places for four generations of your family.

Family Tree Pedigree Chart

A colorful tree with places for photos of four generations of your family.

Family Group Sheet

A blank form with space to list information about a husband, wife, and their children.

[[Media:Research_Log.pdf|Research Log]]

A blank form that allows you to keep track of your family history research. You can write down list of sources you have searched and what you find.

Finding Records of Your Ancestors 

This series of guides provides a step-by-step instructions for finding your ancestors.

Finding Records of Your Ancestors: England 1837 To 1901

Finding Records of Your Ancestors: Scotland 1855 To 1901

Finding Records of Your Ancestors: Finland

African American Quick Guide pdf

Finding Records of Your Ancestors: African American 1870 To Present