GEDCOM files are text files (ending in ".ged") that most genealogy programs can generate (export) or read (import).  They contain a very structured text using 4-letter abbreviations (tags) of standard information fields.  They are completely separate from the files that the genealogy program normally uses to store the information you create.  They may be accessed by clicking on the "File" drop-down menu and selecting "Import" or "Export".  The GEDCOM 5.5 standard is the latest version of these files, but many programs cannot exchange all of their information without using unique "tags" to represent the fields that maintain the genealogy information that you entered.  You can check for another explanation of what a GEDCOM is at http://helpdesk.rootsweb.com/FAQ/wcgedcom1.html - new window.

All that aside, the best course is to select the GEDCOM 5.5 standard and be sure that the file extension is ".ged" when saving.   Make the destination "PAF" (a universally accepted standard) and be sure to include all data, notes, and sources.  Be sure to name the file something meaningful such as "martin-20Jan2000.ged" and save it to your "desktop" or some favorite location for your files.  This file may then exchanged with others by E-mail attachment or submitted to the Internet for posting.

What do I do with a GEDCOM file? - Most genealogy programs will have no problem reading and generating GEDCOM files.   If you just want to look at the file without using a genealogy program try the simple and compact program called GedView by T Mark James.   The GEDCOM file tags are explained.

Family Tree Maker users may want to check for specific instructions for making a GEDCOM file at http://familytreemaker.genealogy.com/support/imexport/01617.html?Welcome=1015943930 - new window.  Instructions for splitting only part of your information are at http://familytreemaker.genealogy.com/support/imexport/01201.html?Welcome=1015944057 - new window.  The whole list of FTM instructions may be accessed at http://www.genealogy.com/help/?Welcome=1015944101 - new window.

The WorldConnect Project by RootsWeb provides an excellent forum for posting GEDCOM files.  A brief explanation may be found at Genealogy Web Site.  See http://www.rootsweb.com/ - new window for a place to get more information, http://worldconnect.rootsweb.com/ - new window to begin looking up ancestors and cousins, and http://worldconnect.genealogy.rootsweb.com/cgi-bin/igmuser.cgi - new window to start sharing your GEDCOM.  Check Your Home Page for your other genealogy pages.