Upload Raw Data to GEDmatch and Secondary Sites
1 hourDownload raw data from testing company and upload to GEDmatch, MyHeritage, and FamilyTreeDNA.
Field context
This workflow is part of 2 niche fields
Complete guide for dna test integration — step-by-step workflow, tools, checklist, and expert tips to get started.
Download raw data from testing company and upload to GEDmatch, MyHeritage, and FamilyTreeDNA.
Review cM totals and segment counts; classify matches as close (≥90 cM), medium, or distant.
Group matches by shared DNA and known MRCA; build color-coded cluster spreadsheets.
Cross-reference cluster MRCA predictions with documented genealogy to confirm or identify gaps.
Estimate generation distance from match ages and relationship predictions to guide cluster assignment.
Calculate years between proposed common ancestor and match to validate relationship hypothesis.
Track match names, cM values, segment data, and cluster assignments in a structured log.
Compress cluster diagram screenshots for sharing with match contacts.
Typical shared DNA ranges by relationship.
| Relationship | Average cM | Range cM |
|---|---|---|
| Parent/Child | 3480 | 2376–3720 |
| 1st Cousin | 866 | 553–1225 |
| 2nd Cousin | 229 | 46–515 |
| 3rd Cousin | 73 | 0–234 |
Use a brief, specific message: "We share 245 cM — do you recognize the surname Kovacs?"
Ignore segments below 7 cM for genealogy — most are ancient population artifacts.
NPE discoveries affect entire families — consider consulting a genetic counselor before revealing.