Practical Steps to Start DNA Genealogy
Starting my AncestryDNA journey felt like opening a family treasure chest. A 200 cM match led to a cousin and a 1900s photo. This guide offers practical steps to begin DNA genealogy, from choosing a test to building a tree. Perfect for beginners, it simplifies your first steps. Pair with our Getting Started with DNA Testing.
Why Start DNA Genealogy?
DNA genealogy connects you to your past. My MyHeritage test revealed Sicilian roots, while a 150 cM match found a cousin via FamilySearch. It’s an accessible way for beginners to uncover heritage and relatives.
The Power of DNA
DNA tests analyze your genetic code to reveal ethnicity and matches. My 30% Scandinavian result surprised me, leading to a Norwegian cousin. Combining DNA with records breaks through research barriers, ideal for beginners.
Key Benefits
- Discover Heritage: Uncover ancestral origins.
- Find Relatives: Connect with cousins.
- Build Trees: Create a family legacy.
Step 1: Choose a DNA Test
Picking the right test is key. I chose AncestryDNA for its large database, finding a 3rd cousin. Research companies like 23andMe to match your goals—ethnicity or relatives.
Test Options
- AncestryDNA: Best for cousin matches.
- 23andMe: Adds health insights.
- MyHeritage: Strong for European roots.
- FamilyTreeDNA: mtDNA/Y-DNA tests.
Choosing Tips
- Define goals: ethnicity or cousins?
- Compare databases on ISOGG.
- Start with autosomal, add mtDNA/Y-DNA later.
Step 2: Take the Test
Taking a test is simple: swab, register, mail. My 23andMe test took 6 weeks, but eating beforehand nearly ruined my MyHeritage sample. Follow instructions for valid results.
Testing Tips
- Avoid food/drink for 30 minutes.
- Swab for 30–60 seconds.
- Store kits in a cool, dry place.
Step 3: Interpret Results
Results show ethnicity and matches. My AncestryDNA 200 cM match was a 3rd cousin, confirmed by FamilySearch. Tools like GEDmatch enhance analysis.
Key Components
- Ethnicity Estimates: Show origins, like 25% Irish.
- DNA Matches: Relatives sharing cM.
- Tools: ThruLines, chromosome browsers.
Step 4: Build a Family Tree
A tree links matches to ancestors. My sparse tree missed connections until I added generations on MyHeritage, revealing a 1800s ancestor. See our Family Tree Guide.
Tree-Building Tips
- Add 3–4 generations.
- Verify with FamilySearch.
- Link DNA results to your tree.
Step 5: Connect with Matches
Messaging matches unlocks stories. A AncestryDNA match shared a 1870s photo, enriching my research. Polite messages increase responses.
Contact Tips
- Share surnames or locations.
- Ask about family stories.
- Join Reddit r/Genealogy.
Success Stories
DNA genealogy creates breakthroughs. These stories inspire beginners.
- Sarah: Found a Scottish cousin via AncestryDNA.
- John: Traced Polish roots on FamilyTreeDNA.
- Maria: Linked to French ancestry on MyHeritage.
- Emma: Uncovered German roots via GEDmatch.
Next Steps
Launch your DNA genealogy journey with these steps.
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