Upload Raw Data to GEDmatch and Secondary Sites
1 hourDownload raw data from testing company and upload to GEDmatch, MyHeritage, and FamilyTreeDNA.
Intermediate2-4 weeks
Dna Test Integration Guide
Complete guide for dna test integration — step-by-step workflow, tools, checklist, and expert tips to get started.
DNA testersadoptees
Workflow
Analyze Shared Segment Data
2 hoursReview cM totals and segment counts; classify matches as close (≥90 cM), medium, or distant.
Build Shared Match Clusters
1 weekGroup matches by shared DNA and known MRCA; build color-coded cluster spreadsheets.
Connect Clusters to Paper Trail
2 weeksCross-reference cluster MRCA predictions with documented genealogy to confirm or identify gaps.
Tools Used
- Age CalculatorPrimary
Estimate generation distance from match ages and relationship predictions to guide cluster assignment.
- Date Difference CalculatorPrimary
Calculate years between proposed common ancestor and match to validate relationship hypothesis.
- NotepadSupporting
Track match names, cM values, segment data, and cluster assignments in a structured log.
- Image CompressorReference
Compress cluster diagram screenshots for sharing with match contacts.
Checklist
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Preparation
Execution
Analysis
Research
Quality
Compliance
Reference Materials
cM Relationship RangesTable
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 |
Centimorgan EstimateFormula
Expected cM ≈ 3500 × (0.5)^n where n = number of meioses — use for relationship hypothesis testing.
Leeds MethodStandard
Group matches into four color clusters representing each grandparent line using 90–400 cM second cousins.
Contact Templates
Use a brief, specific message: "We share 245 cM — do you recognize the surname Kovacs?"
Segment Threshold
Ignore segments below 7 cM for genealogy — most are ancient population artifacts.
Emotional Impact
NPE discoveries affect entire families — consider consulting a genetic counselor before revealing.
Safety Notes
- DNA results can reveal misattributed parentage — discuss implications with family before public tree linking.
- Review platform privacy policies — law enforcement matching is opt-in on most sites but policies change.