Many people want to incorporate their DNA test results in their family history research, and there is so much to learn with new tools continually developing. I think a lot about how to simplify the explanations about DNA and the process of using DNA results to find and confirm ancestors. My goal is to help people navigate the process and find success in their research.
I created this DNA Tools Bell Curve graphic to briefly illustrate a process or methodology to incorporate DNA into your family history research, moving from the simplest tools on the left to the most complex DNA research tools on the right. The bell curve’s highest point suggests where you will likely spend the bulk of your time. The left half of the graphic shows tools not using segment data. The right half depicts those using segment data. Some projects may not require the more advanced tools, but others may benefit from their use.
Developers will continue to create new tools, and the graphic can help you determine which tools to choose depending upon your research objective. Spending the time to learn to use these tools will increase your ability to work with your DNA results and progress toward your ultimate goals.
You can view the DNA Tools Bell Curve below. The more detailed file includes websites where the tools are found. The other option is simpler and just includes the types of tools.
Hopefully, these charts will help you as you research using DNA! If you would like more detailed diagrams, see the Family Locket Shop for downloadable or laminated DNA Process Tree charts that guide you step-by-step in using DNA in your family history research.
Research Like a Pro with DNA Book and Course
To learn more about using DNA evidence in your genealogy research, be sure to get our new eBook, Research Like a Pro with DNA: A Genealogist’s Guide to Finding and Confirming Ancestors with DNA Evidence (RLP with DNA). RLP with DNA has twelve chapters about using your autosomal DNA results to verify your documentary genealogy research and uncover unknown ancestors. We also discuss Y-DNA and mitochondrial DNA. The book’s focus is the process that we use in our professional work to organize DNA matches, make a research plan incorporating documentary and DNA sources, use DNA tools, keep track of information in a research log, and write conclusions. Sign up for our newsletter to be one of the first to be notified when the eBook is published. The print book will be published soon after the eBook. To register for our Research Like a Pro with DNA course, go here: https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-ecourse/
Best wishes in your research!
Robin Wirthlin
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