Software opinions

[ASB74]

Hi what is the best software for a Mac book? I would like something that cross references and is idiot proof, easy to use. Thanks in advance

[Biggles50]

We need a bit more information to offer effective suggestions, but no software is Idiot Proof.

Assuming you are seeking Genealogy Software, Roots Magic, Family Tree Maker, Reunion, MacFamilyTree are all the ones that we have on our MacBook.  I cannot comment on other Apps other than some like Legacy and Family Historian do not have versions for the MacOS, they can be used but they need a Third Party App to enable them to function.

There are Pros and Cons with each.

Both Roots Magic and Family Tree Maker can download and sync a Family Tree in full, including documents and media off Ancestry.  The error checking tools in Roots Magic are very useful and simple to use.

Using a Gedcom to create a Family Tree in software does not include documents and media, just the references, so a big plus for the feature in the software.

Word Processing and Spreadsheet software is free, Pages and Numbers are in the App Store.  Presentation software such as Keynote is also free as is other of Apples own software.

[Spelk]

Do you want to have your tree available for use on your iPad and iPhone?
I use Reunion and it has cut down version (Reunion Touch) which lets me view and modify the tree on my iPad or phone. The master file sits on Dropbox and is updated when Wi-Fi signal is available.
Some other programs let you view your tree on a tablet but not update them.
Doing anything useful on the iPhone is hard due to the small screen size but iPad works ok and iPad is easier to take to libraries or relatives than a MacBook.

[ASB74]

Thank you for taking the time to reply.

I plan to use a MacBook. I was hoping there is something that eg creates a person profile where I can input information and hopefully would cross reference the info eg identify family members who over the generations lived on the same street, and something I could upload photos and maps to … and easy to use!! Thanks again

[Biggles50]

Alas there is no magic wand, just hard graft getting to use the software.

I suggest that you seek out Video Tutorials on the Apps that have been listed prior.

Roots Magic, the tutorial is for the prior version but is still valid.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjfXNymgNN0&t=3s

Family Tree Maker, do note and bookmark Family History Fanatics as they have masses of excellent video tutorials

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=76hve0ivoL

MacFamily Tree

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yAnZjY64J4w&list=PL6Yh1ds5dzZ_o1f0f-tMKAyiYtz9j5Bd5