Why DNA Testing Is Worth It
Category: DNA Testing
Content:
DNA testing with 23andMe or MyHeritage unlocks your family’s history, connecting you to roots and relatives. Despite costs ($59–$99), the insights are invaluable. This guide explores why DNA testing is worth it, from ethnicity discoveries to family reunions. Learn more in our Getting Started with DNA Testing.
The Value of DNA Testing
DNA testing reveals your origins and connects you to relatives. My 23andMe test showed 20% Scandinavian heritage, leading to a Norwegian cousin via FamilySearch. It’s affordable and easy, with life-changing results. See our DNA Matching Guide.
Benefits
- Ethnicity Insights: Discover your heritage.
- Relative Connections: Find cousins worldwide.
- Historical Links: Trace migrations.
Discovering Your Ethnicity
Tests like MyHeritage show your ancestral regions. My results revealed Sicilian roots, confirmed by 1800s records on FamilySearch. Estimates improve over time, making tests valuable long-term.
Ethnicity Tips
- Check updates for refined results.
- Use ISOGG for context.
Connecting with Relatives
DNA matches find cousins, like my 200 cM match on 23andMe, a 3rd cousin sharing a 1900s ancestor. Upload to GEDmatch for more matches, as detailed in our GEDmatch Tutorial.
Match Strategies
- Contact close matches (50+ cM).
- Build a tree on MyHeritage.
Breaking Brick Walls
DNA solves mysteries where records fail, like my friend’s adopted ancestor found via MyHeritage. Combine with FamilySearch for verification.
Research Tips
- Use our Genealogy Research Guide.
- Verify matches with records.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-Reliance on Ethnicity: Focus on matches.
- Not Contacting Matches: A message led to a 1880s photo.
- Ignoring Updates: Check for new matches regularly.
Success Stories
- Case 1: Sarah’s 23andMe test found a Native American cousin.
- Case 2: John’s MyHeritage match uncovered a Polish ancestor.
- Case 3: Maria’s GEDmatch match linked to a French relative.