GEDCOM Troubleshooter

Missing information and Errors in information

I have exchanged gedcom files with someone but there is missing information from the files

Because every program handles data differently, exporting and importing data via a gedcom does not always transfer data as expected. These small mismatches most commonly occur when an old programme and a newer program are involved.

You may find that the import or export options of your software may need to be changed, please consult the instuctions/help section for your software to verify how to change your import/export options. Datas tags, fields and character sets are the most common causes of a conflict

To verify where the problem occurs try examing the file in text format by opening the file with Noterpad.

Examining the GEDCOM file in Notepad is valuable as a diagnostic step. It will help you determine whether the problem is occurring during export or during import.

To open a GEDCOM file in Notepad, right-click on the GEDCOM file, choose Open With, and then Notepad.

Opening a gedcom file with Notepad

Find an unusual phrase or name that is in the original file, but is missing when you import the gedcom.

Press CTRL-F and type the phrase or name, exactly as it appears in the original file. Search the text (gedcom) file.

If you find the phrase or name you are seeking, the data is being exported properly, and something in the import is causing the problem.

If you do not find the phrase or name you are seeking, the problem is occurring during export.

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Tags and Fields Explained

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Character Set; Ansel and Ansi Questions

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Uploading Problems and invalid gedcom file messages

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