RootsChat.Com
General => The Common Room => Topic started by: Robert Fletcher on Friday 29 November 24 18:33 GMT (UK)
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Hi everyone,
I’m relatively new to incorporating DNA into my family history research, though I’ve been working on genealogy for over 20 years. I’ve only been using DNA tools (via Ancestry) for the last couple of weeks and am finding myself a bit lost.
While there are some excellent tutorials out there, they often skip the basics or focus on unrelated topics. For example, I don’t need to learn what DNA is—I already understand the general science behind it. What I do need is a straightforward, indexed tutorial that covers the practical steps for using DNA results effectively in family research.
Here’s a bit more context on what I’m looking for:
Clear Basics: How to use DNA matches on platforms like Ancestry, step by step. I know how to view my matches but get confused on what to do from there.
Side-by-Side Comparison: I have access to my cousin’s DNA results, and I’d like to understand how to analyze them alongside mine.
Indexed Material: The resource should be easy to reference later so I can quickly revisit specific topics as needed.
Up-to-Date Information: Many tutorials, even highly recommended ones (like some YouTube videos or books), are outdated. I need guidance that reflects the current tools and interfaces on platforms like Ancestry.
I’m open to resources in any format—PDFs, books, websites, or even videos—as long as they meet the above criteria. If anyone can recommend something current and comprehensive, I’d be very grateful.
Thank you for any help you can provide!
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Have you tried Lost Cousins? https://www.lostcousins.com (https://www.lostcousins.com)
It's free to join and use, and has great newsletters.
The July 2023 newsletter had an updated version of an earlier masterclass in DNA
https://www.lostcousins.com/newsletters2/jul23news.htm#Masterclass (https://www.lostcousins.com/newsletters2/jul23news.htm#Masterclass)