Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How does traditional genealogy help the project? A: While DNA tests are incredible tools for discovering your genetic family, they do not eliminate the need for traditional genealogy research. Adding conventional research to the project helps maximize the value of your DNA investment. At a minimum, adding your Most Distant Known Ancestor (MDKA) to your account profile allows administrators to accurately analyze your genetic sub-group. The best practice is to provide your full patrilineal lineage, which helps everyone in your specific subgroup advance their own research.

Q: How do Y-DNA matches help pinpoint my origins? A: By combining your individual Y-chromosome results with the recurring surnames of your close genetic matches, it is often possible to pinpoint a specific historical "Genetic Homeland" for your ancestors. Your project administrators can help guide you based on the specific surnames you match with.

Q: What exactly is a "Genealogical Timeframe"? A: According to FamilySearch.org, a genealogical timeframe is defined as "an indefinite time period in which records of identifiable ancestors became available". Generally, this is accepted to include the 1st through the 15th generations, or the era since the formal adoption of surnames.

Q: What are "signature STRs"? A: Signature STRs are specific DNA markers shared by a distinct group of test-takers. When a group shares these markers, it provides a distinctive genetic identification or "signature" for their specific lineage.

Q: What is the technical difference between an STR and an SNP? A: While both are types of genetic mutations used to track ancestry, they function differently at a microscopic level:

• SNP (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism): A variation that occurs when just one single nucleotide (the basic building blocks of DNA: A, T, C, or G) differs in a sequence. For example, if most people have a "C" at a specific position on a gene, but your family line has a "T", that single change is an SNP.
• STR (Short Tandem Repeat): A short sequence of nucleotides (usually 2 to 6 of them) that is repeated multiple times in a row, or "in tandem". For example, a sequence might look like GATA-GATA-GATA. The genetic variation between individuals resides simply in how many times that specific short sequence is repeated (usually between 5 and 100 times).

Q: What about my privacy? A: Your privacy is a top priority. Genetic genealogist Maurice Gleeson has written an excellent guide outlining the benefits of sharing non-sensitive information for research purposes, alongside clear instructions on what to do if you prefer your data to remain strictly private. See https://dnaandfamilytreeresearch.blogspot.com.