FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Using the maker
Is PedigreeChartMaker really free?
Yes. The maker, all templates, every export format, and Quick Build are free with no account, no trial, and no file limits.
Do I need to create an account?
No. Projects are saved in your browser local storage. Export a .pedigree.json file to back up or move them.
Does it work on my phone or tablet?
Yes. The editor adapts to small screens with a bottom toolbar and inspector sheet, and exports still produce full-size files.
Can I print a chart?
Yes — use Export → Print or the browser print dialog, or export PDF with A4 or Letter page settings. See our how-to export guide for full details.
How do I move a project to another computer?
Export .pedigree.json from the first device, then use Open project in the maker on the second device.
Notation and symbols
Which symbol standard do you follow?
The conventional human pedigree notation used in genetics education and clinical records: squares, circles, shading, carrier dots, proband arrows, twin bars, and dashed adoption lines. See our complete symbols guide.
What does a double line between partners mean?
A consanguineous union — the partners are blood relatives. Use it for cousin unions and other inbreeding structures.
How do I mark twins?
Add children to a relationship, pair them as twins, then set zygosity in the inspector. All twin branches meet at one point; monozygotic twins have a connector between branches, dizygotic twins do not. Learn more in our twins and adoption guide or open the twins pedigree template.
How do I show adoption?
Set the child link kind to Adopted-in or Adopted-out. All adoptees receive brackets; adoptive-parent descent is dashed and biological-parent descent is solid. See the adoption pedigree template for an editable example.
What are the small numbers next to symbols?
Pedigree IDs: generation number followed by a person index (for example 3-2). You can hide them in Settings or on export.
Data, privacy, and export
Where is my data stored?
On your device only, in browser IndexedDB storage. Editing involves no server, no upload, and no analytics. See the privacy policy for details.
What if I clear my browser data?
Local projects are removed. Keep .pedigree.json backups of anything you care about.
What file formats can I export?
SVG, PNG (scalable), PDF, .pedigree.json, and direct printing.
Can I anonymize a chart for teaching?
Yes — the export dialog replaces names with pedigree IDs with one checkbox. Read our guide to teaching pedigree analysis for lesson ideas.
Is there a maximum chart size?
Practically no. Very large charts are warned about on export so you can choose a larger PNG scale or PDF tiling.
Templates and classroom use
Do the inheritance templates auto-fill with real genetic data?
No. Templates demonstrate the correct structure and shading pattern for each mode of inheritance; you replace labels with your own people and traits. Explore our starter templates or read how to distinguish patterns in our autosomal inheritance guide.
Can students use it?
Yes — it is free, needs no account, works offline, and includes keyboard and screen-reader support. You can also start quickly with the Quick Build wizard or review our step-by-step tutorial.
Can I make animal pedigrees?
Yes. Use squares for males and circles for females regardless of species — for example, try our dog pedigree chart template.
Still stuck? Contact us — we answer within a couple of working days.