If you’re wondering How to Make a File Smaller in FTM 2017, 2019, and 2024, the process involves a few practical steps to optimize your Family Tree Maker database without losing valuable information. Over time, your FTM file can grow in size due to accumulated media files, unused facts, duplicate individuals, or unnecessary data. To reduce its size, start by compacting your file using the “Compact File” feature under the Tools menu, which cleans up unused space and improves performance. Next, review and remove duplicate individuals, merge duplicate facts, and delete any outdated or irrelevant sources. Large media files like photos and documents can be resized or compressed outside of FTM before reattaching them, helping to significantly reduce file size. Also, consider storing some media in external folders instead of embedding them directly in the FTM file. By following these steps regularly, you can keep your file smaller, faster, and more efficient, whether you’re working in FTM 2017, 2019, or the latest FTM 2024 version.