Combining DNA Tests for Genealogy

Combining my AncestryDNA and FamilyTreeDNA tests felt like assembling a family puzzle. Autosomal, mtDNA, and Y-DNA tests revealed cousins and deep roots. This guide explains how to combine tests for maximum genealogy insights, perfect for beginners. Start with our Getting Started with DNA Testing.

Why Combine DNA Tests?

Using multiple DNA tests enhances your research. My AncestryDNA found a 3rd cousin, while FamilyTreeDNA traced my maternal line. Combining autosomal, mtDNA, and Y-DNA offers a complete picture, ideal for beginners seeking broad ancestry.

The Power of Multiple Tests

Each test targets different DNA. Autosomal covers all lines, mtDNA your maternal line, and Y-DNA (for males) your paternal line. My MyHeritage autosomal test and FamilyTreeDNA mtDNA test together confirmed a 1700s Irish ancestor via FamilySearch.

Key Benefits

• Comprehensive Ancestry: Covers all family lines.
• Deep Lineages: Traces maternal and paternal roots.
• More Matches: Increases cousin connections.

How Tests Complement Each Other

Autosomal tests find recent cousins, while mtDNA and Y-DNA trace deep ancestry. My 200 cM autosomal match on AncestryDNA led to a cousin, while my mtDNA haplogroup revealed ancient roots. Combining them maximizes discoveries.

Autosomal vs. mtDNA vs. Y-DNA

• Autosomal: Broad matches, like my 150 cM cousin.
• mtDNA: Maternal lineage, like my Irish haplogroup.
• Y-DNA: Paternal lineage (males only), like a friend’s Swedish roots.

Combining Strategies

• Start with autosomal for broad matches.
• Add mtDNA/Y-DNA for deep lineage.
• Use GEDmatch for cross-platform analysis.

Using Combined Results

Combining results requires tools. AncestryDNA’s ThruLines linked my autosomal matches, while FamilyTreeDNA clarified my mtDNA haplogroup. GEDmatch connected all tests, revealing a 1800s ancestor.

Key Tools

• AncestryDNA: ThruLines for autosomal matches.
• FamilyTreeDNA: mtDNA/Y-DNA databases.
• GEDmatch: Combines all test types.

Maximizing Results

• Upload all results to GEDmatch.
• Build a tree on MyHeritage.
• Verify with FamilySearch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Combining tests can confuse beginners. I ignored my mtDNA results, focusing only on autosomal, missing a maternal ancestor. Not integrating results limits discoveries.

Pitfalls

• Focusing on one test type.
• Not building a tree to link matches.
• Ignoring small matches.

Success Stories

Combining tests creates breakthroughs. These stories inspire beginners.

• Sarah: Used AncestryDNA and FamilyTreeDNA to find Irish roots.
• John: Linked German ancestry via GEDmatch.
• Maria: Traced Spanish roots on MyHeritage.
• Emma: Uncovered Polish lineage via combined tests.

Next Steps

Combine DNA tests with these steps to unlock your full heritage.

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