In a message dated 6/30/98 3:09:46 PM Central Daylight Time, gfcosmos@gate.net writes: << GenTips-L@rootsweb.com >> The most important thing that any genealogy program can have is GEDCOM (genealogy data communication) capability. Beyond that, most genealogy programs are affordability of the individual and preference. I use Personal Ancestral File, which is the originator of GEDCOM. I've been very satisified with it, but the basic program doesn't have as many "bells & whistles" as some of the more elaborate, expensive programs. The program costs $15, but there are add on's if you want to write a book or do something fancy. The add on's tend to cost about the same, and be multiple featured. If you decide to try it, you can go to the nearest LDS Family History Center as they have it on their computers. Also, they will have an order blank for it. It is definitely a must to record on a gen. program though. Since any one person can appear 5 different places (parent, grandparent, child, spouse, or "other" spouse) on a group sheet, putting them on the program eliminates having to retype the same info several different times, and risking introducing errors. Happy choosing. Karen