HOW DO I USE DNA IN FAMILY HISTORY?

Curious about DNA? Thinking of Testing?

There are a number of sources of information about DNA testing on the web, including Facebook and YouTube. Major testing companies such as FamilyTree DNA, Ancestry DNA and 23andMe etc have useful resources, including webinars.

The Federation of Family History Societies in the UK has released a paper to help family historians understand more about DNA testing. While Australian laws may operate differently it contains some worthwhile advice and is included here courtesy of the Federation.

The SAG hosts lectures and group meetings focussed on practical applications using DNA sites and third party tools. If you would prefer a live event where you can interact with the presenter and ask questions we also run a quarterly online session called Beginners Introduction to DNA where attendees can learn all about the different types of tests, which companies sell them and what to consider before testing. Please check the Events Calendar for details of upcoming activities.

Tested and want to know what to do next?

To be effective in DNA research you firstly need to be familiar with the evaluation tools provided by your testing company, and secondly be aware of some of the key concepts that underpin the analysis process. Testing companies such as Family Tree DNA, AncestryDNA, 23andMe, My Heritage etc all provide a range of educational items to assist with their product and all new users should gain familiarity with the relevant testing company's site.

If you would like to start your DNA journey visit our DNA Research Group - Tools in Practice webpage for links to some great introductory websites and blogs belonging to SAG members.

The below image shows the recommended learning pathway for those attending courses at the SAG.

Diagram prepared by Andrew Redfern based on earlier versions by Veronica Williams & Christine Woodlands, 2023

Want to dig deeper into your DNA results, expand your tree or break down a brick wall?

The SAG has two DNA Research Groups which you can attend to learn more about DNA.

Here is a list of upcoming DNA sessions

Upcoming events

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WEBINAR: Introduction to DNA Painter

When
30 November 2024

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Location
Via Zoom

Spaces left
480

Register

This is an introductory session that will explain what chromosome mapping is and why mapping our DNA segments can benefit our DNA research and help us piece together our family tree. The session will specifically look at how we can use the DNA Painter (https://dnapainter.com/) website to assist with this process.

We’ll look at downloading DNA data and uploading this data into DNA Painter and start ‘painting’ our chromosomes. We’ll also spend some time looking at interpreting the results and there will also be plenty of time for questions.

This is a stand-alone session to help new users understand and benefit from ‘chromosome painting’ with DNA Painter.

This is an online session using the ZOOM platform.

Skill level: Beginner users of DNA Painter, understanding of the basic principles of using DNA for genealogy would be beneficial.

Presenter: Melissa Hulbert

Where an event is recorded the recording link will be emailed to registrants within five working days of the live presentation.

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GROUP: DNA Research Group - Tools in Practice

When
07 December 2024

10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Location
Via Zoom

Spaces left
483

Register

Topic: Working with FamilyTreeDNA tools

This session will explore the various tools available on the FamilyTreeDNA site for use with autosomal, Y-DNA and mtDNA. Members of the DNA Research Group will demonstrate how they are using the tools to enhance their research. Any Member who has a tool they would like to demonstrate should contact the convenors at least 7 days prior to the session.

The DNA Research Group - Tools in Practice is a collaborative group designed to assist researchers with the analysis and interpretation of genetic genealogy results.

The group is designed to meet the needs of attendees with an intermediate level of knowledge of genetic genealogy.

Group Leads: Veronica Williams and Danielle Lautrec

This session will be held online via the Zoom platform.

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GROUP: DNA Research Discussion Group

When
07 December 2024

1:30 PM - 3:30 PM

Location
Via Zoom

Spaces left
489

Register

Topic: Y-DNA case studies

This session is a facilitated discussion session which will

a) Examine and discuss several Y-DNA examples to assess results and explore ideas for further research.

b) Provide an opportunity for members to ask questions about the analysis and use of YDNA results.

Information and discussion questions will be distributed before the meeting. It requires pre-work by participants with all expected to contribute to the discussion.

In the first part of the session, we will take a look at case studies which will highlight the interpretation of results (STR and BigY700), most particularly in relation to matches, haplogroups and genetic trees.

This section of the session will be recorded.

The second part of the session will be a facilitated round table Q&A session.

This section of the session will NOT be recorded and could be thought of as "Everything you ever wanted to know about YDNA testing but were afraid/never got around to ask”.....

Questions could include (but not limited to) the following:

- I just don't get...,

- How can I use ........(from my results to assist my research?

- I have heard/seen the following.... What does that mean?

- I have the following genealogy mystery/dilemma/brick wall...Should I test? Who?

- Should I upgrade?

- I would like to know more about.....

- Questions relating to the case studies presented.

It is preferred that questions be submitted prior to the session. Questions can be accompanied by slides.

Contact details for submitting advance questions for the meeting will be included in the confirmation email you receive after registering.

Facilitator: Sharon Watson

Presenter: Christine Hingerty

Group Leads: Veronica Williams and Danielle Lautrec

Please note: The topics and tools discussed at this group are pitched at an advanced level and the Research Discussion Group meetings are not recommended for those just beginning their DNA journey.

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