DNA TESTING - Genealogy-1

This is a male specific test. Results identify the ethnic and geographic origin of the paternal line. It includes a balanced panel of thirty-seven Y-chromosome Short Tandem Repeat, STR, markers. The additional markers refine the predicted time period in which two individuals are related and eliminate unrelated matches. A perfect match at sixty-seven markers indicates a common ancestor in very recent times. This is the ideal test for matching if a break in the paper trail, such as an adoption, is known or suspected. A haplogroup is determined and backed by our SNP Assurance Program. When another person shows identical results within our database, if both parties have signed the Family Tree DNA Release Form, then we will inform them of the match. The customer will also receive a certificate and report describing the testing process and the meaning of sixty-seven marker matches.

BEFORE TESTING - Do the right test on the right person.

1. Frame your question. Take some time to look over your family tree and consider what you are looking for from a test. Do you want to prove or disprove a family legend? Would you prefer to explore your deep ancestry? You should know what you are looking for from your results to ensure that you order the right test. If you have questions please contact us.
2. Select the right person to test. Do you have the same y-Chromosome or mitochondrial DNA as the ancestor who interests you? If not then you will have to find a relative to act as a proxy. Our inheritance chart explains how the tools of Genetic Genealogy, the y-Chromosome and mitochondrial DNA, are passed on with each generation.
3. Choose the right company. When DNA testing for your genealogy, please do not spend your money without fully understanding what you are getting for your dollars and who is behind the company that is serving you. Choosing the best testing company.

TESTING - Understanding your test kit and the lab process.

1. Once you order your kit, it should arrive in the mail in a few days. Examine your test kit. Take some time to read through the materials. The Family Tree DNA test kit consists of three cheek scrapers, buccal swabs, and two collection tubes. They are designed for a single person's use. Each tube contains a fluid designed to arrest bacteria growth. This ensures that you can scrape your cheek and return your kit in any type of weather (hot or cold). The freshness of your sample will remain intact for months. View DNA test instructions ...
2. Once sample collection is complete, it is time to return the samples and the signed release to Family Tree DNA. You will receive an e-mail when your kit arrives safely at our headquarters. While you wait for your results, take a peek at the process from the cheek scraping to extraction.
3. Read the reading and comparing test results tutorial.
4. Browse the books and videos and scientific papers pages while your DNA is processed by the lab.

AFTER TESTING - What do results mean?

1. You will be notified by email when the lab has completed testing. Now is a good time to review the terminology of Genetic Genealogy using our glossary.
2. Log in to your account and check your results. Explore the information on both your matches and your ancestral origins.
3. If you have questions you will find answers in our faq.