Does anyone know how to draw the correct pedigree chart? This was the question I recently saw posted on the Internet and here's the answer.

First, a pedigree chart is a graphical representation of direct ancestors from generation to generation. This mean it will show a person's direct line (grandparents, great-grandparents, great-great-grandparents, etc), but not uncles or aunts.

In family tree research, the first person is typically YOU, and you're given the number 1 (one). The next generation back are your mom and dad. On a line running back from you, the paternal (father) line runs along the top and the maternal (mom) runs along the bottom.
Under the name of each person is more information, including their date and place of birth and death along with marriage date and place.

Each person on the pedigree chart has a number. Remember, you are #1. Your father is double your number (2) and your mom is double your number plus one = 3. This sequence carries through to all generations. By this, I mean that each person on the chart has a number and their father is always double their number and their mother is always double their number plus one.

So, if some is #5, their dad is #10 and their mom is #11. If they are #12, their dad is #24 and their mom is #25.

A pedigree chart generally shows only five generations back, but you can take it back as many generations as you wish. Remember, though to begin with the correct number. Here's an example.
If you are #1

your dad is 2
your grandpa is 4
your great-grandpa is 8
your great-great grandpa is 16

Now, your chart just ran out of room. What do you do when you want to continue with this line? Your great-great-great-grandpa will be the first person on the next chart, but he WILL NOT be #1, he will continue with the same numbering convention - - he will be #32.

A pedigree chart is the most commonly used chart in genealogy along with a family group sheet. The group sheet, instead of showing each generation focuses on one family only: husband, wife and children. The group sheet contains names, dates and places for all of the individual (as known) along with the children's eventual marriages.

When you begin working with your family tree, you'll find that several people have the same first name - it's very common to find generation after generations of William, James, John, Sarah, etc. Making a pedigree chart is a handy way to keep track of who's who - and not mix up one William with a William in another generation.