When it comes to genealogy, I find myself consistently relying on one invaluable tool: DNA Painter’s Shared cM Project tool. This tool, developed by genetic genealogist Blaine Bettinger and hosted on DNA Painter, has become essential for mapping out DNA match relationships, whether in my personal family research or client cases. The Shared cM Project tool is simple in design, yet it offers powerful insights by estimating the range of possible relationships between DNA matches based on the number of shared centimorgans (cM). Why I Use the Shared cM Project Tool So Often Genealogical research is often like solving a complex puzzle where relationships and connections can be tricky to pin down, especially when it involves unknown parentage or unknown ancestors. When I’m working with DNA test results, whether for my family history or a client’s case, the Shared cM Project tool helps guide my analysis. It’s especially useful when I need to hypothesize the possible relationships between DNA matches and where they fit in, such as estimating whether someone is a likely second cousin, third cousin, or even further removed. How the Shared cM Project Tool Works The Shared cM Project tool works by allowing you to enter the amount of DNA (in centimorgans) shared with a particular match. Based on this input, the tool suggests a variety of possible relationships between you and the DNA match, along with the relationship probabilities (%) and a chart for those who are more visual, using data collected from thousands of known relationships. For example:
In complex cases with multiple DNA matches, the tool’s ability to highlight likely relationships can make a big difference in narrowing down the family tree branches I need to explore. Real-World Examples of DNA Painter’s Impact in My Research One example where DNA Painter’s Shared cM Project tool proved invaluable was during a recent client case involving unknown parentage. The client’s DNA results showed a close match with someone sharing approximately 426 cM, with Ancestry predicting them most likely as a 1st cousin 2x removed. Using the Shared cM Project tool, I quickly determined that this match could be a first cousin once removed (1c1r), a half great-nephew, or a very close half-first cousin (Half 1c), along with a few lesser possibilities. This critical insight provided a starting point for further investigation, allowing me to zero in on specific family lines and greatly simplifying what could have been a lengthy process. This match wound up being a half great nephew, the grandchild of an unknown child who was the product of yet another affair of her father. Another instance was during my own family research when I discovered another mystery match who shared approximately 201 cM with me. Initially, I had no idea how this person could fit into my tree. However, with the Shared cM Project tool’s suggestions, I was able to focus on the second cousin range as the most likely relationship, which eventually led me to an unknown child of my great uncle. Why It’s My Go-To Tool for Client Work For clients, the Shared cM Project tool is particularly useful because it streamlines the initial stages of DNA analysis. I can quickly interpret the data and explain potential relationships to clients, making the information accessible without overwhelming them with technical jargon. It’s also a fantastic educational tool when clients want to learn more about their DNA matches and what their results might mean. How to Get Started with DNA Painter’s Shared cM Project Tool If you’re interested in trying it out for yourself, DNA Painter’s Shared cM Project tool is free to use on the DNA Painter website. It’s a must-have for anyone serious about genetic genealogy, especially when working with DNA matches that aren’t immediately obvious. By simplifying the complex relationship possibilities that arise in DNA results, this tool has become indispensable in my toolkit. Whether you’re a seasoned genealogist or a beginner just starting to explore the world of DNA, I can’t recommend DNA Painter’s Shared cM Project tool enough. It’s the kind of tool that evolves with you, adding precision to your research as you dive deeper into the fascinating world of genetic genealogy. More Genetic Genealogy/DNA ResourcesFind more DNA genealogy resources, tips, and other info under the Genetic Genealogy and DNA category. More Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more family history and genealogy resources under the Genealogy Resources category and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
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Genealogy often feels like a puzzle, but sometimes it can resemble a mystery novel with unexpected twists and hidden characters. Recently, I encountered another “mystery match” on Ancestry—a previously unknown relative who shared a significant amount of DNA with my 1c2r, while working on organizing her paternal DNA matches (the side we share), yet didn’t quite fit into the known family tree. Here’s how I approached this genealogical mystery and pieced together the clues. 1. A Surprising Match: The First Clue The journey began with a surprising DNA match categorized as “Close Family” by Ancestry. They shared 426 cM of DNA and Ancestry predicted them as a 1st cousin 2x removed, which these centimorgans suggests a relationship in the range of a 1st cousin 1x removed (1c1r), a half grandnephew, a great-great nephew, or a half first cousin (1/2 1c), among others—each intriguing and requiring a closer look to confirm. 2. Tools for Relationship Estimation Using three key tools, Ancestry’s “Frequency of Relationships”, DNA Painter’s Shared cM Project Tool, and MyHeritage’s cM Explainer tool, I analyzed these possible relationships. Both former tools highly suggested the most likely possibilities were Great-Great-Nephew, Half Great-Nephew, 1C1R, Half 1C, Half Great- Uncle, or possibly a Great-Great-Uncle, and the later tool highly suggested 1C1R. But this was just the start—the tools help narrow the field, but genealogy is about testing hypotheses. 3. Shared Matches: Clues from Family Connections I began comparing their shared matches. By cross-referencing these shared matches, I found some links that connected our DNA mystery to known family members who are descendants of her grandparents’ children, thus her father and his siblings—in which two are known to have had extramarital affairs. This provided an important clue: this new match was likely another result of our family’s history of complex relationships. 4. Analyzing cM Comparisons and Mapping Relationships To further test my hypothesis, I reviewed the cM values of known family members who share connections with this mystery match, using not only the Shared Matches tool, but the Shared Matches Pro Tool as well. Comparing cM values from other relatives on this line, I found patterns that suggested a very close family link. Based on their age (if the match is the only associate of the test manager that I found in public records with a name that fits the screen name initials) and likely generation, the match seemed to fit best as a half great-nephew--but identifying exactly where they fit requires more direct evidence, thus more work needs to be done analyzing cM comparisons and mapping relationships for the other 3 possibilities—1C1R, Great-Great-Nephew, or Half 1C. 5. Reaching Out to Potential Relatives The next step was to contact the mystery match’s test manager, as his screen name was just initials. Although the account had been inactive for over a year, I tried reaching out via Ancestry messages and Facebook (after I checked through public records, so I knew who to look for based off age, location, and associates). This is often a waiting game, and not everyone responds, but sometimes, persistence pays off. Every piece of information can make a difference, and connecting with living relatives can clarify lingering questions. 6. Lessons Learned: Tips for Investigating Mystery Matches This mystery match investigation highlighted several useful techniques for anyone facing a similar DNA puzzle:
By following these steps, I’ve gotten closer to understanding how this mystery match fits into our family story. DNA testing is a powerful genealogical tool, but it’s detective work as well. Each match is another chapter in the family’s story—one just waiting to be told. © 2024 Diane Henriks @ Know Who Wears the Genes in Your Family More Genetic Genealogy/DNA ResourcesFind more DNA genealogy resources, tips, and other info under the Genetic Genealogy and DNA category. More Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more family history and genealogy resources under the Genealogy Resources category and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page. More Genealogy Brick Walls and MysteriesFind more genealogy brick wall research, tips, and other info under the Genealogy Brick Wall Research category. More Genealogy Research TipsFind more genealogy research tips under the Genealogy Research Tips category.
AncestryDNA just launched its biggest update yet, adding a variety of new features and regions designed to help us get more out of our DNA results. This update includes a total redesign of the platform, offering improved accessibility, faster performance, and enhanced mobile support. With the launch of 24 new DNA regions and the introduction of 54 subregions in Europe, as well as 64 ethnic groups in Africa, this is Ancestry’s most significant update to date. Let's take a look at what's new and how these changes can impact your family history journey. 1. New Regions and Subregions: Precision at Its Finest AncestryDNA has expanded its geographic coverage significantly with the introduction of 24 new DNA regions. This includes:
2. African Ethnic Groups: A Cultural Deep Dive A standout feature of the update is the addition of ethnic groups in Africa, which reflect communities of people who share common cultural characteristics, such as language, religion, customs, and national origin. Ancestry has added 64 ethnic groups, providing a richer understanding of African heritage. This is a significant leap forward, especially for those researching African ancestry, where historical records can often be scarce or difficult to trace. With these ethnic groups, we can explore connections beyond just geography. The groups provide insight into cultural dynamics, migration patterns, and community history, offering a deeper perspective on their ancestral stories. 3. Refreshed Design and Feature Name Changes In addition to the new regions and features, AncestryDNA has undergone a total redesign. The new, more accessible design aims to enhance usability, whether you're accessing the site on a desktop or a mobile device. Several features have also been renamed for greater clarity:
4. Improved Performance and Accessibility AncestryDNA’s update isn’t just cosmetic—it's also designed to improve site performance. The updated platform supposedly gives faster load times, even on slower connections, to make it easier to explore our results without delay. Enhanced support for mobile devices will mean that you can seamlessly access your DNA insights on the go. 5. Enhancements and Future Plans Ancestry’s redesign also seems to lay the groundwork for future enhancements. While the update intends to improve user experience and understanding of the platform, it also sets the stage for more features and tools in the coming months and years. We can look forward to continued improvements that will further refine the accuracy and depth of our results. My Experience: New Insights and a Few Growing Pains Personally, my Ancestral Regions (formerly "Ethnicity Estimates") have remained fairly consistent and seem to align even more closely with my known family history. I’ve noticed the increased precision in the new subregions, which has given me a deeper understanding of my ancestral ties. However, there are still a few kinks in the system. For example, although my regions were marked as “Updated October 2024,” it now shows “Updated July 2024.” Additionally, some of the new subregions assigned to me were removed within days of the update. I’ve also encountered issues with managing my list of others DNA results that I manage, which is now disorganized and not in alphabetical order as it was before. Despite these minor bugs, the update is a significant improvement, offering a more immersive and accurate understanding of my DNA results. The potential for future enhancements makes me hopeful that AncestryDNA will continue to evolve and improve over time. User Experience Challenges: Not All Changes Are for the BetterWhile AncestryDNA's latest update has introduced exciting new features and a fresh design, there are some changes that make navigating the platform more difficult for users like myself.
Final Thoughts Ancestry’s biggest DNA update brings exciting new features and refinements that will help genealogists and family historians gain more insight into their ancestral roots. From expanded regions to enhanced design and performance, this update represents a major step forward in how we explore our family history. While there are still a few hiccups to iron out, and some important features that I found useful now missing or changed, the overall experience has been positive, and I’m looking forward to seeing how Ancestry will continue to build on these improvements. If you haven’t already, now is a great time to revisit your AncestryDNA results and see how these new updates could unlock more of your family story. © 2024 Diane Henriks @ Know Who Wears the Genes in Your Family More Ancestry and Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more Ancestry updates, tips, tools, and features and other family history and genealogy resources under the Ancestry.com and the Genealogy Resources categories of my blog and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
In today’s age of digitized records and advanced DNA testing, many of us are uncovering parts of our family histories that challenge long-standing narratives passed down through generations. As a professional genealogist, I've been on a decades-long journey to trace my own ancestry, but it wasn't until recent years that my research took a surprising turn that made me question the stories I had heard about my Mexican heritage. A recent NBC News article titled "They're uncovering their ancestry — and questioning their families' racial narratives" caught my attention. The piece highlights a growing trend among Latinos who, through genetic testing and historical records, are learning that their family stories, which often focused on white Spanish ancestry, are more complex than they thought. Many are discovering African roots and a legacy of slavery, which were often left out of oral histories. For me, this hit home in a very personal way, as my own genealogical research has led to a similar realization. The Family Stories We Grew Up With Growing up, I always heard that my great-grandmother, who came from Canatlán, Mexico, was of pure Spanish descent. This was the story that was told to my family, passed down as fact through generations. As I began tracing her lineage, however, I was eager to verify and expand upon this history with the help of historical documents, church records, and eventually DNA testing. I was able to trace her Mexican roots back to my 5th and 6th great-grandparents—some of whom were in Mexico for generations. But when I dug deeper into the records, what I found was unexpected. While I had anticipated discovering ties to Spain, I uncovered something quite different. Church records for one set of my 5th great-grandparents listed one ancestor as Mulatto and the other as Mestizo. This discovery shed light on a much more intricate and diverse ancestry than the one my family believed. These terms indicated a blending of African, Indigenous, and European heritage, unraveling a piece of family history that had long been hidden or forgotten. The Role of DNA Testing The puzzle became even more fascinating when I turned to DNA testing. While my own DNA results showed Mexican and Hispanic ancestry, there was no African ancestry detected. However, when I examined my paternal uncle's DNA (who shares my Mexican great-grandmother), 2% African ancestry appeared. This is particularly significant because it supports the findings from the church records—matching up with the records of a Mulatto ancestor from generations ago. The absence of African DNA in my results, yet its presence in my uncle's, makes sense given that I am one generation further removed, showing how DNA inheritance can vary within family lines. This surprising fact sparked more questions. Could this African ancestry have been part of the transatlantic slave trade? Mexico, like much of Latin America, had a history of African enslavement, yet this part of its history is often overlooked or minimized in both public discourse and family narratives. The 2% of African ancestry in my uncle’s DNA may be a remnant of this history, and while I can’t say definitively that these ancestors were enslaved, the possibility certainly raises interesting questions about the lives they lived. Rewriting Family Narratives Like many families with Mexican heritage, my ancestors' stories seemed to be shaped by a desire to emphasize their European or Spanish roots. In a society where social status could be influenced by one’s perceived racial makeup, it's understandable why families may have focused on their Spanish lineage while downplaying African or Indigenous ancestry. But as genealogists, our task is to uncover the truth—even when it complicates long-held family narratives. This process of discovery has been both surprising and enlightening. It has deepened my appreciation for the rich and diverse history of my Mexican ancestors, who were not solely defined by Spanish colonialism, but by a blending of cultures—African, Indigenous, and European—that shaped Mexico’s unique heritage. It's a reminder that our family histories are far more complex than we often realize. The Legacy of African Roots in Mexico The NBC News article highlights an important point: Latino families across the Americas are coming to terms with the African and Indigenous roots that have been long buried in their family stories. For those of us with Mexican ancestry, the story is no different. From the early days of colonial Mexico, people of African descent played a vital role in the country's development, from laborers to soldiers and artisans. Many of their descendants became part of the mestizo and mulatto populations that have long been a key aspect of Mexico’s racial landscape. My Personal Journey of Discovery As I reflect on my genealogical research, it’s clear that DNA testing and digitized records have opened up new avenues for understanding our past. For years, my family believed in a specific narrative about our Spanish ancestry, but research and records have illuminated the deeper, more complex roots of our heritage. My journey into my Mexican great-grandmother’s lineage has revealed ancestors who not only lived in Mexico for generations but also carried with them African heritage that was not part of our family’s oral history. It’s an interesting contrast—the stories passed down through the family about Spanish origins, and the concrete evidence of African roots that church records and DNA testing have revealed. Like many others, my family’s story is not just about a direct descent from European colonists. It's about the mixing of people and cultures in ways that weren’t always acknowledged but are now, in the light of modern genealogy, coming to the front line. Conclusion In my journey as a genealogist, I’ve always found gratification in piecing together the fragments of our ancestors' lives. My Mexican heritage has proven to be way more complex than the family stories I was told growing up, and I am grateful for the tools that have allowed me to uncover these hidden stories. Whether through digitized church records or DNA testing, we have the power to rewrite our family histories—embracing the full scope of who our ancestors were and the rich, diverse cultures they represented. As Latinos, as genealogists, and as individuals, we must remain open to these discoveries, allowing ourselves to be surprised by the truth. It is through these surprising facts that we can more fully understand our place in history and honor our complete family legacies. © 2024 Diane Henriks @ Know Who Wears the Genes in Your Family Note to readers: Have you discovered unexpected ethnic roots through your family history research? Has DNA testing or historical records revealed surprising details about your ancestors? I'd love to hear your stories in the comments below! More Hispanic Genealogy Tips and ResourcesLearn about more Hispanic genealogy tips and resources under the Mexican Genealogy category and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page. More African Genealogy Tips and ResourcesLearn about more Hispanic genealogy tips and resources under the African American Genealogy category and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
8/25/2024 Unlock the Secrets of Genetic Genealogy with the Southern California Genealogical Society's DNA Interest GroupRead NowExploring the DNA Interest Group Host, the Southern California Genealogical SocietyFounded in 1964, the Southern California Genealogical Society (SCGS) has been a strong and reliable resource for genealogical research, education, and community. As the largest genealogical society in Southern California, SCGS serves a diverse and dynamic membership, providing invaluable resources and support for those delving into their family histories. The Society’s mission is to help individuals understand and appreciate the unique histories, cultures, and traditions of our diverse communities, fostering an appreciation for the collective contributions to society. With an extensive library of over 40,000 volumes, including 6,000 family histories, SCGS offers a wide variety of research resources that go beyond regional boundaries to include materials from every state and several countries. The DNA Interest Group: Pioneering Genetic Genealogy EducationIn 2005, SCGS formed the DNA Interest Group, one of the first of its kind in the United States, dedicated to educating and assisting members in understanding the complexities of DNA testing and interpreting their results. This group, a cornerstone of SCGS’s educational offerings, has become an essential resource for anyone interested in genetic genealogy—a field that has revolutionized the way we explore our ancestry and connect with biological relatives. DNA analysis and genetic genealogy are powerful tools that have not only helped countless individuals discover previously unknown relatives but have also been important in solving historical mysteries and even aiding criminal investigations. The SCGS DNA Interest Group provides a community where members can learn about the latest developments in DNA testing, discuss their results, and receive personalized assistance in interpreting their data. Hybrid Meetings: A Blend of Learning and Personalized HelpThe DNA Interest Group holds quarterly hybrid meetings on the 5th Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. These meetings offer a unique blend of education and personalized support. Typically, each meeting features a speaker or lecture on a relevant topic, followed by dedicated time for individualized help, where attendees can work with experts to better understand their DNA results and genealogical research. The next meeting, scheduled for Saturday, August 31, 2024, promises to be particularly enlightening. The event will be held at the SCGS Library in Burbank, with both in-person and online participation available, reflecting the Society’s commitment to accessibility and community engagement. Upcoming Presentation: "Who Is That Mystery DNA Match?" by Diane HenriksThis quarter’s featured speaker is me, Diane Henriks, a professional genealogist specializing in solving for unknown parentage and brick walls, which heavily incorporates genetic genealogy. I will present "Who Is That Mystery DNA Match? Solving a Genetic Genealogy Brick Wall" from 10:10 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. My presentation will tackle one of the more perplexing challenges in genetic genealogy—identifying unexpected DNA matches. Many individuals are surprised when they encounter a DNA match they can’t immediately place within their known family tree. My presentation will equip attendees with a comprehensive methodology for investigating these mystery matches. I will demonstrate how to incorporate various resources—such as matches across different DNA testing platforms, photographs, public records, Google searches, social media, and geographical locations—into a cohesive strategy for uncovering the identity of these unknown relatives. Following the presentation, there will be a Q&A session, allowing attendees to engage directly with me and gain further insights into their own genealogical puzzles. The Value of Attending DNA Interest Group Meetings Attending a DNA Interest Group meeting at SCGS offers numerous benefits for anyone interested in genetic genealogy, whether you are a beginner or an experienced researcher. Participants gain access to:
Join Us on August 31, 2024 Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from me, Diane Henriks, at the next DNA Interest Group meeting on Saturday, August 31. Whether you attend in person at the SCGS Library in Burbank or join online, this event is sure to provide you with the tools and insights needed to tackle your most challenging DNA matches. For more information about the Southern California Genealogical Society, the DNA Interest Group, or to register for the upcoming meeting, visit the SCGS website. Join us and unlock the mysteries hidden within your DNA! More Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more family history and genealogy resources under the Genealogy Resources category and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
Exciting News: MyHeritage and FamilyTreeDNA Announce New Collaboration!I am excited to share some fantastic news for all you genealogy enthusiasts and DNA researchers! MyHeritage and FamilyTreeDNA, two biggies in the genealogy world, have launched a new collaboration that will bring even more value to your family history research. What’s New? Seamless Family Tree Transfer: FamilyTreeDNA users can now transfer their family trees to MyHeritage for free! This integration allows you to continue building and expanding your family tree on MyHeritage, taking advantage of its super powerful genealogy tools and features. Access to MyHeritage’s Robust Tools: By transferring your family tree to MyHeritage, you gain access to a wide range of advanced genealogy tools and technologies that are not available on FamilyTreeDNA. This includes tools for record matching, automatic matches to other family trees, photo enhancements, and much more. Voluntary Transfer: While transferring your tree data to MyHeritage is voluntary, it is HIGHLY encouraged. FamilyTreeDNA will officially phase out their family tree builder on September 9, 2024. After this date, family trees on FamilyTreeDNA will become read-only, although you can still transfer them to MyHeritage. Focus on DNA Testing: This collaboration allows FamilyTreeDNA to focus on what they do best – DNA testing services and reporting – while providing their users with access to MyHeritage’s top-notch family tree tools. How to Transfer Your Family Tree
Why Transfer Now? Transferring your family tree data as soon as possible ensures you won’t lose any functionality when FamilyTreeDNA phases out their tree builder. Plus, early transfer gives you immediate access to all the fantastic tools MyHeritage offers. For more details about this exciting integration, check out the official blog post on MyHeritage. Let’s spread the word and make the most of this new collaboration to enhance our genealogy research! Happy researching! More MyHeritage Update, Tools, and FeaturesLearn about more of the latest MyHeritage updates, tools, and features under the MyHeritage category. More Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more family history and genealogy resources under the Genealogy Resources category and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
Exciting news for genealogists and family historians! Ancestry.com has introduced a new BETA feature, Community Groups, set to transform how we connect, share, and collaborate in our genealogical journeys. While still in its testing phase and available to select users, this feature promises to be a valuable addition to Ancestry's toolkit. What Are Community Groups? Currently, the Community Groups feature showcases three public groups:
First Impressions and Potential Though still in BETA and not fully accessible, the feature appears to be aimed at fostering community engagement and collaboration. Users can join groups, but full functionality—including viewing and participating in discussions—is not yet available. The placeholder message reads: "Coming soon: Community groups. We’re building a space for you to connect with others, celebrate your milestones, ask for help, and uncover more about your family history. Check back soon for updates." Why This Matters As a professional genealogist, the prospect of these community groups is incredibly promising. Here’s why:
Final Thoughts While we await the full rollout, the anticipation surrounding Ancestry’s Community Groups is Real. This feature has the potential to enhance our research by providing a supportive community where we can share knowledge, seek assistance, and celebrate our genealogical achievements together. Stay tuned for further updates as Ancestry.com continues to develop and refine this exciting new feature. Whether you’re a seasoned genealogist or just starting your journey, Community Groups could soon become an invaluable part of your research toolkit. More Ancestry and Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more Ancestry updates, tips, tools, and features and other family history and genealogy resources under the Ancestry.com and the Genealogy Resources categories of my blog and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
Top 5 DNA Genealogy Testing SitesAre you ready to take the plunge and take a DNA test whether it be to enhance your genealogy, find biological family, break down a genealogy brick wall, or just to know who you are and where you came from? In the rapidly advancing field of genetic genealogy, choosing the right DNA testing service is crucial for uncovering your ancestral roots and connecting with relatives. Let's explore the top five DNA genealogy testing sites: AncestryDNA, FamilyTreeDNA, 23andMe, MyHeritage, and Living DNA. Each of these services offers unique features and strengths that cater to different aspects of genealogical research. Let's take a quick look into what each has to offer. 1. Ancestry.com/AncestryDNAAncestryDNA is one of the most popular DNA testing services, especially among those looking to build and expand their family trees.
2. FamilyTreeDNAFamilyTreeDNA is a pioneer in the field of genetic genealogy and offers a comprehensive range of DNA tests.
3. 23andMe23andMe is well-regarded for its user-friendly interface and a combination of ancestry and health insights.
4. MyHeritage/MyHeritage DNAMyHeritage is a robust platform for genealogical research, offering a strong combination of DNA testing and family tree building.
5. Living DNALiving DNA offers a unique and detailed approach to genetic ancestry testing with a focus on regional breakdowns.
Choosing the right DNA testing service depends on your specific genealogical goals. Whether you are looking for a detailed ethnicity breakdown, connections with relatives, deep paternal or maternal lineage insights, or health-related genetic information, one of these top five DNA genealogy testing sites will meet your needs. Each offers unique features and strengths, ensuring that you can uncover the rich tapestry of your ancestry and build a more complete picture of your family history. More Genetic Genealogy/DNA Resources Find more DNA genealogy resources, tips, and other info under the Genetic Genealogy and DNA category. More Genealogy Resources Learn about more family history and genealogy resources under the Genealogy Resources category and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page. More Top Genealogy
Ancestry Updates June 2024: Introducing the New Shared Matches DNA Pro ToolAncestry has recently unveiled a highly anticipated addition to their Pro Tools suite: the Shared Matches DNA Pro Tool. This new feature enables users to explore the connections between their shared matches, offering a more detailed view of how individuals are interrelated within their genetic network. Designed to enhance genealogical research, Pro Tools is a premium set of tools available for an additional fee, as first introduced in Ancestry Updates December 2023: Ancestry's New Pro Tools. Getting Started with Ancestry’s New DNA Pro ToolTo access the Shared Matches Pro Tool, after the purchase of Pro Tools in addition to an already Ancestry membership, follow these simple steps:
Current Limitations and Considerations While this new tool brings exciting possibilities, it is important to note that it is still in its early stages. As with any new technology, there are some limitations and areas for improvement. Here are some of the issues users may encounter:
Important Notes
Insights and Reflections The new Shared Matches DNA Pro Tool holds significant potential for genealogists, especially those new to DNA research. It simplifies the process of understanding how shared matches may be related, which is invaluable for the majority of Ancestry subscribers. However, for seasoned professionals, the tool might serve more as a supplementary aid rather than a primary resource. In my professional experience, while the tool did not help confirm the one case I specifically purchased it for—due to the complexities of endogamy and pedigree collapse—it did prove valuable in validating previous research. Within just a few hours, I was able to confirm findings from my own family tree and work done for clients, from the past decade. Although it offers a novel way to explore relationships, it may feel more like an experimental feature than a game-changing tool at this stage. Overall, the new Shared Matches DNA Pro Tool represents an exciting step forward for AncestryDNA and their Pro Tools, and with continued development, it has the potential to become an indispensable resource for genealogists of all levels. More Ancestry and Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more Ancestry updates, tips, tools, and features and other family history and genealogy resources under the Ancestry.com and the Genealogy Resources categories of my blog and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
Yes, there is a way to copy and save your DNA match list, easily! I am still in the process of testing out and using various AI platforms for different tasks, as some work out for certain tasks better than others, in my genealogical world. I recently tested out copying and pasting my DNA match list into the FREE version of ChatGPT to see if it would be an easy way to retain and save my matches and notes. Check out the results below for using AI to save your match lists, giving you yet another way to use AI in genealogy! Steps to Copy and Save Your DNA Match List with ChatGPT
Results of ChatGPT Retained DNA Match List and Notes*Note: Click on images to zoom in More Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more family history and genealogy resources under the Genealogy Resources category and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
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BlogI hope my family history and genealogy blog on genealogy research tips, resources, events, and more, along with my own genealogy journeys, will help you in your research and in building your family tree to learn more about your ancestors and family history to preserve for future generations to come! Come visit me at Know Who Wears the Genes in Your Family if you're interested in starting your family history journey, booking me for your next speaking event, or family history and genealogy heirloom products!
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