Finding and Fixing Tree Inconsistencies

In the engaging MyHeritage webinar “Finding and Fixing Tree Inconsistencies,” seasoned genealogist Wayne Shepheard tackles a challenge familiar to every family historian—cleaning up errors in their family tree. With nearly 10,000 individuals in his own database, Shepheard candidly shares how inconsistencies can arise, even in the most carefully curated trees. Through practical demonstrations using MyHeritage’s Consistency Checker and comparisons with other software like Legacy, Family Tree Analyzer, and Family Tree Maker, he equips genealogists with the knowledge and confidence to identify and resolve errors, ultimately ensuring their research is accurate and reliable.

Key Takeaways:

• Software Tools Offer Unique Strengths in Detecting Errors: Shepheard compares multiple platforms for inconsistency detection—MyHeritage’s Consistency Checker, Legacy Family Tree’s Potential Problems Report, and the free Family Tree Analyzer. Each offers different strengths, from flagging chronological anomalies to identifying duplicate or suspicious entries. He emphasizes using multiple tools to gain a fuller picture of issues in your tree.
• Data Entry and Source Evaluation Are Critical: Many common inconsistencies stem from typographical errors, incorrect assumptions, or unverified data—especially when adding speculative individuals or adopting information from other trees. Shepheard advises carefully reviewing dates (e.g., children born before parents' marriages or after deaths), using consistent formatting, and being cautious with names that recur across generations.
• Analyzing Inconsistencies Can Lead to New Discoveries: Reviewing flagged issues prompted Shepheard to reexamine an overlooked branch of his tree. This reevaluation led to historical insights, corrections of misattributed family links, and even the possibility of qualifying for lineage societies like the Sons of the American Revolution. He illustrates how investigating inconsistencies can yield valuable genealogical breakthroughs.

Curious about what hidden errors might be buried in your family tree? Watch the full webinar to discover how you can use tree analysis tools to audit and improve your research. Shepheard's hands-on walkthroughs and honest reflections offer both guidance and encouragement for genealogists at all levels.

Be sure to explore the accompanying syllabus and handouts, which include links to the software tools discussed, helpful articles, and further learning resources. These materials can help you take immediate steps toward refining your family tree and uncovering new insights in your ancestral research.