DNA testing with AncestryDNA can unlock your family’s past, but pitfalls like a bad swab can derail you. I learned this after eating before my test, delaying results. This guide shares five mistakes to avoid for a smooth journey. Perfect for beginners, it ensures you maximize your test. Start with our Getting Started with DNA Testing.
Why Avoid Mistakes?
Mistakes waste time and miss connections. My invalid MyHeritage sample delayed my Sicilian roots discovery, while a 200 cM match led to a 1880s photo. Avoiding errors ensures accurate results and faster breakthroughs.
The Cost of Errors
A single mistake, like a contaminated swab, can delay results by weeks. I learned this when my AncestryDNA test failed, costing me time. Avoiding pitfalls maximizes your $99 investment and unlocks your family’s story.
Key Benefits
- Accurate Results: Valid samples ensure reliable data.
- Faster Connections: Find relatives quickly.
- Better Insights: Maximize tools like GEDmatch.
Mistake 1: Poor Sample Collection
A bad swab ruins results. My MyHeritage test failed because I ate toast beforehand, delaying my results by a month. Proper technique ensures your sample is valid.
Proper Swabbing Technique
Swab your cheek for 30–60 seconds after avoiding food or drink. I learned to follow instructions carefully, ensuring my AncestryDNA sample succeeded on the second try.
Tips
- Avoid food/drink for 30 minutes.
- Swab for 30–60 seconds.
- Mail promptly to avoid degradation.
Mistake 2: Over-Reliance on Ethnicity
Ethnicity estimates, like my 25% Irish on AncestryDNA, aren’t exact due to recombination. I fixated on them, missing a 3rd cousin match. Focus on matches for accurate connections. See ISOGG.
Why Estimates Are Imprecise
Ethnicity estimates compare your DNA to reference populations, but genetic mixing makes them approximate. My Sicilian roots appeared as Southern European until an update refined them. Beginners should use estimates as clues, not facts.
Ethnicity Tips
- Prioritize matches over estimates.
- Check updates for refined results.
- Use FamilySearch for context.
Mistake 3: Ignoring Distant Matches
Small matches matter. A 20 cM match on GEDmatch led to a 1800s German ancestor, a breakthrough I nearly missed. Distant matches can unlock distant branches.
The Value of Small Matches
Matches under 50 cM often connect to older ancestors. My 20 cM match required tree-building on MyHeritage to confirm, but it was worth it. Beginners should explore all matches.
Match Tips
- Contact all matches, even low cM.
- Build a tree on MyHeritage. See our GEDmatch Tutorial.
- Use shared matches to find connections.
Mistake 4: Not Building a Tree
A sparse tree misses matches. My AncestryDNA matches were confusing until I added generations, linking a 150 cM cousin to a 1900s ancestor. Trees are essential for beginners.
Why Trees Matter
A detailed tree links matches to ancestors. My incomplete tree delayed a breakthrough until I used FamilySearch to add details. Beginners should build at least 3–4 generations.
Tree Tips
- Add 3–4 generations for better matches.
- Verify with FamilySearch.
- See our Family Tree Guide.
Mistake 5: Not Contacting Matches
Messages unlock stories. A AncestryDNA match shared a 1880s diary after I reached out, enriching my research. Not messaging delays discoveries.
Effective Communication
Polite, specific messages increase responses. I shared surnames and locations with a MyHeritage match, uncovering a shared 1700s ancestor. Beginners should contact all matches.
Contact Tips
- Be polite and mention shared details.
- Ask about family stories or records.
- Share on our About Page.
Success Stories
Avoiding mistakes leads to breakthroughs. These stories inspire beginners to get it right.
- John: Found a Swedish cousin via AncestryDNA, sharing a 1900s photo.
- Lisa: Uncovered German roots on GEDmatch, confirmed by archives.
- Maria: Linked to French relatives on MyHeritage.
- Emma: Connected to a Polish cousin via 23andMe.
Next Steps
Keep your research on track with these steps for ongoing success.
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