change existing information

Gary W Gibb

I wish I could change existing information while I am comparing the information from a new record. For example a death record will have a complete birth date. So the system automatically pulls in the death date but I have to copy the complete birthdate. Then after I finish with the death record I have to go up into the birth date and edit it with a copy and paste. I should be able to edit current information while I am comparing information from a new record.

Gordon Collett

This request come up frequently, but as is often the case, what looks efficient is not necessarily the best way to proceed.

See: https://community.familysearch.org/en/discussion/144712/allow-detailed-updates-from-record-attachment-page

And: https://community.familysearch.org/en/discussion/comment/509692

And: https://community.familysearch.org/en/discussion/comment/509419 that discusses exactly your example.

Paul W

@Gary W Gibb

Similar requests are often made here. However, many users agree that it is best to return to the individual's Details page to make changes. If you had a full date for a marriage, rather than just a month or a year, it would seem sensible to be able to change this for the fuller detail. However, a closer evaluation of the date (and place) might show it to relate to a banns or licence record, rather than the marriage actual ceremony.

In the case of the example you give, the birthdate might not have been verified - i.e., the person registering the death might have got the date wrong. Similarly, I have found different dates / years of birth for a person in different US census records for them. So, I would never immediately accept detail from one source alone.