Genetic Genealogy Abbreviations and Terms Quick Reference

Now available, Practical Genetic Genealogy Abbreviations and Terms Quick Reference laminated guide.

I was asked to compile a laminated quick reference guide for DNA and genetic genealogy abbreviations and terminology. Even though the ISOGG Wiki and other online sources contain much of this information, it seems many people prefer to have the information available in a laminated guide.

This quick reference guide has several advantages over online access.

1. The definitions needed by genealogical researchers are in one easy-to-access place.
   
2. Both beginner and intermediate level terms are included.
   
3. These are clearly-worded definitions that are easy for non-biologists to understand. I often receive praise for being able to explain DNA in a way that is easy to understand and I tried to continue that tradition here.
   
4. An image of my gingerbread men used to explain DNA inheritance patterns is included. I am constantly asked to provide color versions of this image to students. The image has two couples on the top row, a male and female child of the couples on the middle row, and four grandchildren on the bottom row. A "Y" represents the inheritance path of the Y chromosome through the family. An "O" represents the inheritance path of the mitochondrial DNA through the family. The left half of the gingerbread bodies represent one autosomal chromosome (for example, chromosome one) inherited from the father. The right half of the gingerbread bodies represent the corresponding autosomal chromosome inherited from the mother. The colors of the autosomal DNA represent randomly recombined chromosomes and the colors can be traced back to the great-grandparents not shown on the chart. The colors make it easy to see fully identical regions (FIR) and half identical regions (HIR) of DNA shared by the siblings in the bottom row.
   

The quick reference sheet is currently available from Books and Things (http://www.mygenealogybooks.com/) priced with shipping included.

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All statements made in this blog are the opinion of the post author. This blog is not sponsored by any entity other than Debbie Parker Wayne nor is it supported through free or reduced price access to items discussed unless so indicated in the blog post. Hot links to other sites are provided as a courtesy to the reader and are not an endorsement of the other entities except as clearly stated in the narrative.

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To cite this blog post:
Debbie Parker Wayne, "Genetic Genealogy Abbreviations and Terms Quick Reference," Deb's Delvings, 20 May 2019 (http://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/ : accessed [date]).

© 2019, Debbie Parker Wayne, Certified Genealogist®, All Rights Reserved

DNA Standards - Part 8

For "DNA Standards - Part 1" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-1.html. In the first part I paraphrased the standards for using DNA evidence for genealogy into bullet points.

This is the post for "DNA Standards - Part 8."

¹

Prior bullets are discussed in other parts of this series:

• for an introduction to the blog series on DNA standards see http://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-1.html
• test the right descendants with the right test(s) at the right company or companies to obtain the information needed to answer the research question (Standard 51) (For "DNA Standards - Part 2" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-2.html.)
  
• select matches and/or target-test others with the right test (Standard 51) (For "DNA Standards - Part 2" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-2.html.)
  
• analyze the DNA results accurately and in-depth (Standard 52) (For "DNA Standards - Part 3" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-3.html.)
  
• integrate the thoroughly researched and analyzed DNA and documentary evidence; logically sequence and clearly illustrate the DNA analysis and the documentary analysis in a written conclusion; accurately and completely cite all sources (Standards 1–8, 55, 56, 65, 74) (For "DNA Standards - Part 3" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-3.html.)
  
• ensure enough people have tested to support the conclusion (Standard 53) (For "DNA Standards - Part 4" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-4.html.)
• support every parent-child link in the line from all test takers to the hypothesized ancestors with documentary evidence (Standard 2) (For "DNA Standards - Part 5" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-5.html.)
• identify familial relationships (where appropriate), present the conclusion as a genetic link only if the DNA supports that conclusion, explain any insufficient research (Standards 50, 56, 65, 74) (For "DNA Standards - Part 6" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-6.html.)
• make the DNA data available for verification, as much as possible within the limits of test taker permissions (Standard 54) (For "DNA Standards - Part 7" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-7.html.)

In "DNA Standards - Part 8" I further discuss the final bullet. The main bullets indicate considerations when using DNA to help answer a research question; sub-items explain what is needed to accomplish the tasks defined in the main bullet:

• publish or share only as a living test taker’s permission allows (Standard 57)
  
  • deceased persons have no privacy rights; courtesy to living descendants might warrant anonymizing the identity of a deceased test taker
  • general information can be shared as long as the identifying information is hidden (such as when asking for assistance or when teaching how to use a site or tool)
    
    
    
  • do not use a living person’s DNA results if they do not give permission (some disagree on whether inclusion in a public DNA project constitutes permission)
    
  • do not identify a living person if they do not give permission
    
    • identities can be anonymized
      
    • anonymizing too many people in a study may make the conclusion questionable
      

Unless you are working in a legal capacity where you may be held liable for misidentifying descendants you should be able to use whatever sources you wish to use. If you are publishing, your work will be subject to the requirements of the editor. If you are submitting a portfolio to BCG, your work will be subject to the requirements of BCG. You should contact those entities with your questions.

There will always be disagreements about what constitutes proof. I have read articles in some of the premier genealogical journals that I do not think meet the threshold for the claims made. Obviously, the editors and peer-reviewers felt differently. Some of those articles were based only on documents and some included DNA. We will never all agree on exactly how much evidence is needed for proof and DNA does not change that fact.

BCG, Genealogy Standards, 2nd ed. (Nashville: Ancestry, 2019)

GETTING OFFICIAL INFORMATION ON STANDARDS FROM BCG

Only BCG provides official answers on what it expects to see in application portfolios. No one, not even members of the BCG Board of Trustees or associates helping at exhibit hall booths, speak officially for BCG. For specifics on what BCG expects to see in portfolios, please use BCG’s website, blog, newsletter, and other means of communication:

• BCG website at https://bcgcertification.org/ has a “Contact BCG” link
  
• BCG SpringBoard blog at https://bcgcertification.org/springboard/
  
• BCG OnBoard Newsletter of the Board for Certification of Genealogists has many articles available online at https://bcgcertification.org/learning/skills/onboard/ or subscribe to receive current issues as published
  
• BCG news announcement “Standards for DNA Evidence” dated 28 October 2018 at https://bcgcertification.org/standards-for-dna-evidence/
  

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All statements made in this blog are the opinion of the post author. This blog is not sponsored by any entity other than Debbie Parker Wayne nor is it supported through free or reduced price access to items discussed unless so indicated in the blog post. Hot links to other sites are provided as a courtesy to the reader and are not an endorsement of the other entities except as clearly stated in the narrative.

21 September 2021: added missing link to part 1.

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To cite this blog post:
Debbie Parker Wayne, "DNA Standards - Part 8," Deb's Delvings, 10 March 2019 (http://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/ : accessed [date]).

© 2019, Debbie Parker Wayne, Certified Genealogist®, All Rights Reserved

DNA Standards - Part 7

For "DNA Standards - Part 1" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-1.html. In the first part I paraphrased the standards for using DNA evidence for genealogy into bullet points.

This is the post for "DNA Standards - Part 7."

¹

Prior bullets are discussed in other parts of this series:

• test the right descendants with the right test(s) at the right company or companies to obtain the information needed to answer the research question (Standard 51) (For "DNA Standards - Part 2" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-2.html.)
  
• select matches and/or target-test others with the right test (Standard 51) (For "DNA Standards - Part 2" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-2.html.)
  
• analyze the DNA results accurately and in-depth (Standard 52) (For "DNA Standards - Part 3" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-3.html.)
  
• integrate the thoroughly researched and analyzed DNA and documentary evidence; logically sequence and clearly illustrate the DNA analysis and the documentary analysis in a written conclusion; accurately and completely cite all sources (Standards 1–8, 55, 56, 65, 74) (For "DNA Standards - Part 3" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-3.html.)
  
• ensure enough people have tested to support the conclusion (Standard 53) (For "DNA Standards - Part 4" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-4.html.)
• support every parent-child link in the line from all test takers to the hypothesized ancestors with documentary evidence (Standard 2) (For "DNA Standards - Part 5" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-5.html.)
• identify familial relationships (where appropriate), present the conclusion as a genetic link only if the DNA supports that conclusion, explain any insufficient research (Standards 50, 56, 65, 74) (For "DNA Standards - Part 6" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-6.html.)

In "DNA Standards - Part 7" I further discuss the eighth bullet. The main bullets indicate considerations when using DNA to help answer a research question; sub-items explain what is needed to accomplish the tasks defined in the main bullet:

• make the DNA data available for verification, as much as possible within the limits of test taker permissions (Standard 54)
  
  • depending on publication venue this might mean
    
    • providing login information to an editor to confirm the DNA data (the password can be changed after the editor has completed the review)
      
    • asking test takers to upload to a public project (such as at FamilyTreeDNA where the test taker gives permission and the administrator sets project options for results to be displayed publicly)
      
    • asking test takers to upload to a publicly available third-party website (available to any internet user without logging in or requiring a login and password that any person can obtain)
      
    • providing screenshots of web pages with the DNA or match data
      
  • if the DNA test results are not publicly shared or confirmed by an unbiased third party there is a risk that the author misinterpreted the DNA test results
    
  • if one or more test takers choose to remain unidentified the credibility of the conclusion should be evaluated with that person removed or anonymized
    
  • if one or more test takers choose to remain unidentified the essay may not meet the criteria for some publications nor be the best choice of work sample to demonstrate your analysis and correlation skill
    
  • just as we have always done with articles and work samples based on documentary sources, we must make judgments on credibility when using DNA sources
    

Additional bullets will be discussed in other parts of this series:

• publish or share only as a living test taker’s permission allows (Standard 57) (For "DNA Standards - Part 8" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-8.html.)

BCG, Genealogy Standards, 2nd ed. (Nashville: Ancestry, 2019)

GETTING OFFICIAL INFORMATION ON STANDARDS FROM BCG

Only BCG provides official answers on what it expects to see in application portfolios. No one, not even members of the BCG Board of Trustees or associates helping at exhibit hall booths, speak officially for BCG. For specifics on what BCG expects to see in portfolios, please use BCG’s website, blog, newsletter, and other means of communication:

• BCG website at https://bcgcertification.org/ has a “Contact BCG” link
  
• BCG SpringBoard blog at https://bcgcertification.org/springboard/
  
• BCG OnBoard Newsletter of the Board for Certification of Genealogists has many articles available online at https://bcgcertification.org/learning/skills/onboard/ or subscribe to receive current issues as published
  
• BCG news announcement “Standards for DNA Evidence” dated 28 October 2018 at https://bcgcertification.org/standards-for-dna-evidence/
  

---

All statements made in this blog are the opinion of the post author. This blog is not sponsored by any entity other than Debbie Parker Wayne nor is it supported through free or reduced price access to items discussed unless so indicated in the blog post. Hot links to other sites are provided as a courtesy to the reader and are not an endorsement of the other entities except as clearly stated in the narrative.

---

To cite this blog post:
Debbie Parker Wayne, "DNA Standards - Part 7," Deb's Delvings, 10 March 2019 (http://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/ : accessed [date]).

© 2019, Debbie Parker Wayne, Certified Genealogist®, All Rights Reserved

DNA Standards - Part 6

For "DNA Standards - Part 1" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-1.html. In the first part I paraphrased the standards for using DNA evidence for genealogy into bullet points.

This is the post for "DNA Standards - Part 6."

¹

Prior bullets are discussed in other parts of this series:

• test the right descendants with the right test(s) at the right company or companies to obtain the information needed to answer the research question (Standard 51) (For "DNA Standards - Part 2" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-2.html.)
  
• select matches and/or target-test others with the right test (Standard 51) (For "DNA Standards - Part 2" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-2.html.)
  
• analyze the DNA results accurately and in-depth (Standard 52) (For "DNA Standards - Part 3" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-3.html.)
  
• integrate the thoroughly researched and analyzed DNA and documentary evidence; logically sequence and clearly illustrate the DNA analysis and the documentary analysis in a written conclusion; accurately and completely cite all sources (Standards 1–8, 55, 56, 65, 74) (For "DNA Standards - Part 3" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-3.html.)
  
• ensure enough people have tested to support the conclusion (Standard 53) (For "DNA Standards - Part 4" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-4.html.)
• support every parent-child link in the line from all test takers to the hypothesized ancestors with documentary evidence (Standard 2) (For "DNA Standards - Part 5" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-5.html.)

In "DNA Standards - Part 6" I further discuss the seventh bullet. The main bullet indicates considerations when using DNA to help answer a research question; sub-items explain what is needed to accomplish the tasks defined in the main bullet:

• identify familial relationships (where appropriate), present the conclusion as a genetic link only if the DNA supports that conclusion, explain any insufficient research (Standards 50, 56, 65, 74)
  
  • no researcher is required to use DNA, but, where available and appropriate, DNA is such a strong piece of evidence for biological relationships that ignoring it is imprudent
    
    • trying to use atDNA to prove biological relationships further back than five to seven generations is not always possible, but sometimes is when random recombination results in segments remaining unbroken over several generations (you do not know what you will find until you look)
    • trying to use Y-DNA or mtDNA is not always possible if no living test takers have the Y-DNA or mtDNA of interest to this research question or if those with the DNA needed are not willing to test
  • no researcher is required to use DNA, but not using DNA when trying to prove a biological or genetic relationship will make many suspect the conclusion may not be accurate
    
    • researchers who have not yet learned to use DNA may take this risk (no DNA police will come knocking on your door, but knowledgeable researchers may wonder why DNA was not used)
    • researchers who have not yet learned to use DNA may hire someone who has educated themselves on using this source (just as one might hire a German researcher for research in Germany, a photographic expert for photo repairs, or an editor for a book)
      
  • if DNA is not available because there are no living test takers or none willing to test, indicating this informs the reader that DNA was considered and is not available
    
    • no living test takers with the right DNA is similar to the records being burned in a courthouse fire
    • no person willing to test is similar to the source being held in a repository that restricts access
      
    • we have dealt with these issues with paper records for years and can apply the same logic to DNA
      
    
    
  • if DNA evidence is not considered, knowing the rate of misattributed parentage seen in most lines, reasonable researchers may conclude a genetic or biological relationship is not proven
    
  • if no specific familial relationships is specified and if DNA is not used, reasonable researchers may conclude a genetic or biological relationship is not proven even if such a relationship is implied
    
  • just as genealogists have always done when documentary evidence was not strong enough to “prove” a relationship, one can indicate “DNA evidence is not available because of XYZ, all of the documentary evidence available supports a conclusion that John Doe is the father of William Doe” or “John Doe named his son William in his will” or dozens of other ways this can be indicated without implying a DNA test supports the conclusion or using words other than the ones we traditionally use to define relationships
    
  • some researchers think an explicit statement should be made of the relationship type being asserted; some think, in the absence of a stated relationship type, the sources used make an implicit statement
    
  • some think we have always asserted biological relationships without DNA evidence and should still be able to do so; some think today’s technology means there is a paradigm shift that should be embraced
    

These discussions are likely to continue for the next few years or longer. In my time in the genealogical world, the same kinds of discussions took place when computers first began being used and again when so many records became available online. The genealogical community made it through those changes which were major transitions in how we work. I suspect we will make it through this "crisis" in time to be poised for the next one that will surely come.

Additional bullets will be discussed in other parts of this series:

• make the DNA data available for verification, as much as possible within the limits of test taker permissions (Standard 54) (For "DNA Standards - Part 7" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-7.html.)
• publish or share only as a living test taker’s permission allows (Standard 57) (For "DNA Standards - Part 8" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-8.html.)

BCG, Genealogy Standards, 2nd ed. (Nashville: Ancestry, 2019)

GETTING OFFICIAL INFORMATION ON STANDARDS FROM BCG

Only BCG provides official answers on what it expects to see in application portfolios. No one, not even members of the BCG Board of Trustees or associates helping at exhibit hall booths, speak officially for BCG. For specifics on what BCG expects to see in portfolios, please use BCG’s website, blog, newsletter, and other means of communication:

• BCG website at https://bcgcertification.org/ has a “Contact BCG” link
  
• BCG SpringBoard blog at https://bcgcertification.org/springboard/
  
• BCG OnBoard Newsletter of the Board for Certification of Genealogists has many articles available online at https://bcgcertification.org/learning/skills/onboard/ or subscribe to receive current issues as published
  
• BCG news announcement “Standards for DNA Evidence” dated 28 October 2018 at https://bcgcertification.org/standards-for-dna-evidence/
  

---

All statements made in this blog are the opinion of the post author. This blog is not sponsored by any entity other than Debbie Parker Wayne nor is it supported through free or reduced price access to items discussed unless so indicated in the blog post. Hot links to other sites are provided as a courtesy to the reader and are not an endorsement of the other entities except as clearly stated in the narrative.

---

To cite this blog post:
Debbie Parker Wayne, "DNA Standards - Part 6," Deb's Delvings, 10 March 2019 (http://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/ : accessed [date]).

© 2019, Debbie Parker Wayne, Certified Genealogist®, All Rights Reserved

DNA Standards - Part 5

For "DNA Standards - Part 1" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-1.html. In the first part I paraphrased the standards for using DNA evidence for genealogy into bullet points.

This is the post for "DNA Standards - Part 5."

¹

Prior bullets are discussed in other parts of this series:

• test the right descendants with the right test(s) at the right company or companies to obtain the information needed to answer the research question (Standard 51) (For "DNA Standards - Part 2" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-2.html.)
  
• select matches and/or target-test others with the right test (Standard 51) (For "DNA Standards - Part 2" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-2.html.)
  
• analyze the DNA results accurately and in-depth (Standard 52) (For "DNA Standards - Part 3" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-3.html.)
  
• integrate the thoroughly researched and analyzed DNA and documentary evidence; logically sequence and clearly illustrate the DNA analysis and the documentary analysis in a written conclusion; accurately and completely cite all sources (Standards 1–8, 55, 56, 65, 74) (For "DNA Standards - Part 3" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-3.html.)
  
• ensure enough people have tested to support the conclusion (Standard 53) (For "DNA Standards - Part 4" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-4.html.)

In "DNA Standards - Part 5" I further discuss the sixth bullet. The main bullet indicates considerations when using DNA to help answer a research question; sub-items explain what is needed to accomplish the tasks defined in the main bullet:

• support every parent-child link in the line from all test takers to the hypothesized ancestors with documentary evidence (Standard 2)
  
  • this applies to all parent-child links in all lines in our study group (even the parent-child links we see in someone else's online tree) and not only the line from the main/focus test taker back to the hypothesized common ancestor
    
  • this evidence may be presented in the narrative; the reader will likely be able to follow more easily if the evidence is summarized below a descendant chart
    
  • my preferred method is to use note references as seen in the image below (a, b, and so on); locating the footnote letter or number in the chart and in the list of citations is much easier for me than reading "For parentage of person XYZ see [list of documents]" then finding person XYZ in a chart; the reference numbers are much easier to locate than names, especially when a writer does not use the same exact name in the chart and the text
    
    
    
  • some publication venues may only need one or two sources to support each parent-child link; more sources may be needed to illustrate thorough research meeting the GPS
    
  • if no documentary evidence for a link can be found, explain what records were searched, search criteria used, any theory as to why no documents support this link, and why this link may be true in the face of no supporting documentary evidence
    
  • some parent-child links might ultimately be based on DNA evidence, but a thorough search for the documentary evidence should be demonstrated
    
  • for a large study group we may be able to use genetic networks to support some of the links so that we still have time to research our own family tree and extend it (as opposed to spending all of our time researching the trees of our DNA matches); some time researching the trees or adequately documenting the trees of others will be necessary, but we all need to manage our time to achieve our own goals most efficiently
    

Additional bullets will be discussed in other parts of this series:

• identify familial relationships (where appropriate), present the conclusion as a genetic link only if the DNA supports that conclusion, explain any insufficient research (Standards 50, 56, 65, 74) (For "DNA Standards - Part 6" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-6.html.)
• make the DNA data available for verification, as much as possible within the limits of test taker permissions (Standard 54) (For "DNA Standards - Part 7" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-7.html.)
• publish or share only as a living test taker’s permission allows (Standard 57) (For "DNA Standards - Part 8" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-8.html.)

BCG, Genealogy Standards, 2nd ed. (Nashville: Ancestry, 2019)

GETTING OFFICIAL INFORMATION ON STANDARDS FROM BCG

Only BCG provides official answers on what it expects to see in application portfolios. No one, not even members of the BCG Board of Trustees or associates helping at exhibit hall booths, speak officially for BCG. For specifics on what BCG expects to see in portfolios, please use BCG’s website, blog, newsletter, and other means of communication:

• BCG website at https://bcgcertification.org/ has a “Contact BCG” link
  
• BCG SpringBoard blog at https://bcgcertification.org/springboard/
  
• BCG OnBoard Newsletter of the Board for Certification of Genealogists has many articles available online at https://bcgcertification.org/learning/skills/onboard/ or subscribe to receive current issues as published
  
• BCG news announcement “Standards for DNA Evidence” dated 28 October 2018 at https://bcgcertification.org/standards-for-dna-evidence/
  

---

All statements made in this blog are the opinion of the post author. This blog is not sponsored by any entity other than Debbie Parker Wayne nor is it supported through free or reduced price access to items discussed unless so indicated in the blog post. Hot links to other sites are provided as a courtesy to the reader and are not an endorsement of the other entities except as clearly stated in the narrative.

---

To cite this blog post:
Debbie Parker Wayne, "DNA Standards - Part 5," Deb's Delvings, 8 March 2019 (http://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/ : accessed [date]).

© 2019, Debbie Parker Wayne, Certified Genealogist®, All Rights Reserved

DNA Standards - Part 4

For "DNA Standards - Part 1" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-1.html. In the first part I paraphrased the standards for using DNA evidence for genealogy into bullet points.

This is the post for "DNA Standards - Part 4."

¹

Prior bullets are discussed in other parts of this series:

• test the right descendants with the right test(s) at the right company or companies to obtain the information needed to answer the research question (Standard 51) (For "DNA Standards - Part 2" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-2.html.)
  
• select matches and/or target-test others with the right test (Standard 51) (For "DNA Standards - Part 2" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-2.html.)
  
• analyze the DNA results accurately and in-depth (Standard 52) (For "DNA Standards - Part 3" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-3.html.)
  
• integrate the thoroughly researched and analyzed DNA and documentary evidence; logically sequence and clearly illustrate the DNA analysis and the documentary analysis in a written conclusion; accurately and completely cite all sources (Standards 1–8, 55, 56, 65, 74) (For "DNA Standards - Part 3" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-3.html.)
  

In "DNA Standards - Part 4" I further discuss the fifth bullet. The main bullet indicates considerations when using DNA to help answer a research question; sub-items explain what is needed to accomplish the tasks defined in the main bullet:

• ensure enough people have tested to support the conclusion (Standard 53)
  
  • may require documenting living descendants from multiple children of a focus ancestor or ancestral couple then asking them to test
    
  • in general, the more generations back to the hypothesized common ancestor or the more possible shared lines, the more test takers needed
    
  • no one can say that, in all circumstances, you need two or three or six pieces of documentary evidence to have strong evidence for a conclusion because no one knows ahead of time what information will be found in which sources or how credible that information will be; the same applies to DNA evidence
    
  • exactly how many test takers are needed will vary depending on how many generations it is back to the hypothesized common ancestor and how many lines are traced down from those ancestors
    
  • consider whether additional tests or higher resolution tests for those test takers found in earlier research might more strongly support a conclusion
    

Additional bullets will be discussed in other parts of this series:

• support every parent-child link in the line from all test takers to the hypothesized ancestors with documentary evidence (Standard 2) (For "DNA Standards - Part 5" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-5.html.)
  
• identify familial relationships (where appropriate), present the conclusion as a genetic link only if the DNA supports that conclusion, explain any insufficient research (Standards 50, 56, 65, 74) (For "DNA Standards - Part 6" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-6.html.)
• make the DNA data available for verification, as much as possible within the limits of test taker permissions (Standard 54) (For "DNA Standards - Part 7" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-7.html.)
• publish or share only as a living test taker’s permission allows (Standard 57) (For "DNA Standards - Part 8" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-8.html.)

BCG, Genealogy Standards, 2nd ed. (Nashville: Ancestry, 2019)

GETTING OFFICIAL INFORMATION ON STANDARDS FROM BCG

Only BCG provides official answers on what it expects to see in application portfolios. No one, not even members of the BCG Board of Trustees or associates helping at exhibit hall booths, speak officially for BCG. For specifics on what BCG expects to see in portfolios, please use BCG’s website, blog, newsletter, and other means of communication:

• BCG website at https://bcgcertification.org/ has a “Contact BCG” link
  
• BCG SpringBoard blog at https://bcgcertification.org/springboard/
  
• BCG OnBoard Newsletter of the Board for Certification of Genealogists has many articles available online at https://bcgcertification.org/learning/skills/onboard/ or subscribe to receive current issues as published
  
• BCG news announcement “Standards for DNA Evidence” dated 28 October 2018 at https://bcgcertification.org/standards-for-dna-evidence/
  

---

All statements made in this blog are the opinion of the post author. This blog is not sponsored by any entity other than Debbie Parker Wayne nor is it supported through free or reduced price access to items discussed unless so indicated in the blog post. Hot links to other sites are provided as a courtesy to the reader and are not an endorsement of the other entities except as clearly stated in the narrative.

---

To cite this blog post:
Debbie Parker Wayne, "DNA Standards - Part 4," Deb's Delvings, 5 March 2019 (http://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/ : accessed [date]).

© 2019, Debbie Parker Wayne, Certified Genealogist®, All Rights Reserved

DNA Standards - Part 3

For "DNA Standards - Part 1" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-1.html. In the first part I paraphrased the standards for using DNA evidence for genealogy into bullet points.

This is the post for "DNA Standards - Part 3."

¹

Prior bullets are discussed in other parts of this series:

• test the right descendants with the right test(s) at the right company or companies to obtain the information needed to answer the research question (Standard 51) (For "DNA Standards - Part 2" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-2.html.)
  
• select matches and/or target-test others with the right test (Standard 51) (For "DNA Standards - Part 2" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-2.html.)
  

In "DNA Standards - Part 3" I further discuss the third and fourth bullets. The main bullets indicate considerations when using DNA to help answer a research question; sub-items explain what is needed to accomplish the tasks defined in the main bullet:

• analyze the DNA results accurately and in-depth (Standard 52) (Y-DNA STRs or SNPs; atDNA and X-DNA shared total DNA—shared, triangulated, or mapped segments, or genetic networks; mtDNA regions or locations; Y-DNA or mtDNA haplogroups; atDNA ethnicity estimates)
  
  • requires more in-depth understanding of the tools offered by testing companies and third-parties and how to accurately use those tools
    
  • may require correspondence with people to ask them about test taker links to ancestors or for permission to use third-party tools
    
• integrate the thoroughly researched and analyzed DNA and documentary evidence; logically sequence and clearly illustrate the DNA analysis and the documentary analysis in a written conclusion; accurately and completely cite all sources (Standards 1–8, 55, 56, 65, 74)
  
  • write up the documentary evidence
    
  • explain why DNA is needed and give only as much DNA background as needed for this project (for example, if this case uses only Y-DNA evidence there is probably no need to explain what mtDNA and atDNA are)
    
  • explain the DNA evidence, correlating the shared DNA and/or mutations using tables and lineage charts
    

Additional bullets will be discussed in other parts of this series:

• ensure enough people have tested to support the conclusion (Standard 53) (For "DNA Standards - Part 4" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-4.html.)
  
• support every parent-child link in the line from all test takers to the hypothesized ancestors with documentary evidence (Standard 2) (For "DNA Standards - Part 5" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-5.html.)
  
• identify familial relationships (where appropriate), present the conclusion as a genetic link only if the DNA supports that conclusion, explain any insufficient research (Standards 50, 56, 65, 74) (For "DNA Standards - Part 6" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-6.html.)
• make the DNA data available for verification, as much as possible within the limits of test taker permissions (Standard 54) (For "DNA Standards - Part 7" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-7.html.)
• publish or share only as a living test taker’s permission allows (Standard 57) (For "DNA Standards - Part 8" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-8.html.)

BCG, Genealogy Standards, 2nd ed. (Nashville: Ancestry, 2019)

GETTING OFFICIAL INFORMATION ON STANDARDS FROM BCG

Only BCG provides official answers on what it expects to see in application portfolios. No one, not even members of the BCG Board of Trustees or associates helping at exhibit hall booths, speak officially for BCG. For specifics on what BCG expects to see in portfolios, please use BCG’s website, blog, newsletter, and other means of communication:

• BCG website at https://bcgcertification.org/ has a “Contact BCG” link
  
• BCG SpringBoard blog at https://bcgcertification.org/springboard/
  
• BCG OnBoard Newsletter of the Board for Certification of Genealogists has many articles available online at https://bcgcertification.org/learning/skills/onboard/ or subscribe to receive current issues as published
  
• BCG news announcement “Standards for DNA Evidence” dated 28 October 2018 at https://bcgcertification.org/standards-for-dna-evidence/
  

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All statements made in this blog are the opinion of the post author. This blog is not sponsored by any entity other than Debbie Parker Wayne nor is it supported through free or reduced price access to items discussed unless so indicated in the blog post. Hot links to other sites are provided as a courtesy to the reader and are not an endorsement of the other entities except as clearly stated in the narrative.

---

To cite this blog post:
Debbie Parker Wayne, "DNA Standards - Part 3," Deb's Delvings, 4 March 2019 (http://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/ : accessed [date]).

© 2019, Debbie Parker Wayne, Certified Genealogist®, All Rights Reserved

DNA Standards - Part 2

For "DNA Standards - Part 1" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-1.html. In the first part I paraphrased the standards for using DNA evidence for genealogy into bullet points.

This is the post for "DNA Standards - Part 2."

¹

In "DNA Standards - Part 2" I further discuss the first two bullets. The main bullets indicate considerations when using DNA to help answer a research question; sub-items explain what is needed to accomplish the tasks defined in the main bullet:

• test the right descendants with the right test(s) at the right company or companies to obtain the information needed to answer the research question (Standard 51)
  
  • requires identification of living person(s) likely to have the DNA needed to answer the research question
    
  • requires an understanding of the inheritance path for each type of DNA (Y-DNA, mtDNA, atDNA, X-DNA)
    
  • requires an understanding of the different tests offered by each company
    
• select matches and/or target-test others with the right test (Standard 51)
  
  • requires understanding the tools offered by testing companies and third-parties and how to accurately use those tools
    
  • may require correspondence with people to ask them to take a test (which requires understanding the cultural norms that might affect responses)
    

Additional bullets will be discussed in other parts of this series:

• analyze the DNA results accurately and in-depth (Standard 52) (For "DNA Standards - Part 3" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-3.html.)
  
• integrate the thoroughly researched and analyzed DNA and documentary evidence; logically sequence and clearly illustrate the DNA analysis and the documentary analysis in a written conclusion; accurately and completely cite all sources (Standards 1–8, 55, 56, 65, 74) (For "DNA Standards - Part 3" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-3.html.)
  
• ensure enough people have tested to support the conclusion (Standard 53) (For "DNA Standards - Part 4" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-4.html.)
  
• support every parent-child link in the line from all test takers to the hypothesized ancestors with documentary evidence (Standard 2) (For "DNA Standards - Part 5" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-5.html.)
  
• identify familial relationships (where appropriate), present the conclusion as a genetic link only if the DNA supports that conclusion, explain any insufficient research (Standards 50, 56, 65, 74) (For "DNA Standards - Part 6" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-6.html.)
• make the DNA data available for verification, as much as possible within the limits of test taker permissions (Standard 54) (For "DNA Standards - Part 7" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-7.html.)
• publish or share only as a living test taker’s permission allows (Standard 57) (For "DNA Standards - Part 8" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-8.html.)

BCG, Genealogy Standards, 2nd ed. (Nashville: Ancestry, 2019)

GETTING OFFICIAL INFORMATION ON STANDARDS FROM BCG

Only BCG provides official answers on what it expects to see in application portfolios. No one, not even members of the BCG Board of Trustees or associates helping at exhibit hall booths, speak officially for BCG. For specifics on what BCG expects to see in portfolios, please use BCG’s website, blog, newsletter, and other means of communication:

• BCG website at https://bcgcertification.org/ has a “Contact BCG” link
  
• BCG SpringBoard blog at https://bcgcertification.org/springboard/
  
• BCG OnBoard Newsletter of the Board for Certification of Genealogists has many articles available online at https://bcgcertification.org/learning/skills/onboard/ or subscribe to receive current issues as published
  
• BCG news announcement “Standards for DNA Evidence” dated 28 October 2018 at https://bcgcertification.org/standards-for-dna-evidence/
  

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All statements made in this blog are the opinion of the post author. This blog is not sponsored by any entity other than Debbie Parker Wayne nor is it supported through free or reduced price access to items discussed unless so indicated in the blog post. Hot links to other sites are provided as a courtesy to the reader and are not an endorsement of the other entities except as clearly stated in the narrative.

---

To cite this blog post:
Debbie Parker Wayne, "DNA Standards - Part 2," Deb's Delvings, 4 March 2019 (http://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/ : accessed [date]).

© 2019, Debbie Parker Wayne, Certified Genealogist®, All Rights Reserved

DNA Standards - Part 1

Tomorrow is the big day when the 2019 version of Genealogy Standards starts shipping. This second edition of the book adds standards specifically for using DNA.

Read more and preorder your copy through the Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG) at https://bcgcertification.org/product/genealogy-standards-2d-edition/. As an Amazon Associate, BCG earns a small commission from purchases of this volume using this link: https://amzn.to/2XwKr5W.

BCG, Genealogy Standards, 2nd ed. (Nashville: Ancestry, 2019)

For "DNA Standards - Part 2" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-2.html.

For "DNA Standards - Part 3" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-3.html.

For "DNA Standards - Part 4" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-4.html.

For "DNA Standards - Part 5" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-5.html.

GETTING OFFICIAL INFORMATION ON STANDARDS FROM BCG

Only BCG provides official answers on what it expects to see in application portfolios. No one, not even members of the BCG Board of Trustees or associates helping at exhibit hall booths, speak officially for BCG. For specifics on what BCG expects to see in portfolios, please use BCG’s website, blog, newsletter, and other means of communication:

• BCG website at https://bcgcertification.org/ has a “Contact BCG” link
  
• BCG SpringBoard blog at https://bcgcertification.org/springboard/
  
• BCG OnBoard Newsletter of the Board for Certification of Genealogists has many articles available online at https://bcgcertification.org/learning/skills/onboard/ or subscribe to receive current issues as published
  
• BCG news announcement “Standards for DNA Evidence” dated 28 October 2018 at https://bcgcertification.org/standards-for-dna-evidence/
  

¹

A PRACTITIONER'S INTERPRETATION OF THE STANDARDS FOR DNA

The following presents opinions and interpretations of the standards by Debbie Parker Wayne. This is one interpretation as to how the Genealogy Standards can be applied by all genealogical researchers using DNA. No genealogy or DNA police will come knocking on your door if you disagree with this interpretation and have your own preference on what to do.

When we first began discussing standards for DNA, my own goal was to provide guidance for the genealogists using DNA, not to force every genealogist to use DNA (even though I think all should when DNA can contribute to the evidence that answers a question). DNA findings can overturn any conclusions about family relationships. So can many of the other record types that we use every day.

I believe any good genealogical researcher can learn to use DNA. Nevertheless, it takes education and practice to become proficient at DNA analysis. Not all good genealogists have yet had time to obtain that education and practice analysis using their own families. However, ignoring DNA test results when researching kinship questions is akin to ignoring any other record type—census, deeds, probate, Bible records, and so on. Researchers should learn to use all applicable records or obtain assistance to analyze those records. Again, the DNA police are not going to force anyone to do so; however, I think most researchers want to be sure the parent-child links in a pedigree are correct and will eventually use DNA for confirmation.

Even if tests and tools change, the standards provide guidance and best practices we can all use as we incorporate DNA analysis into our research. The updated Genealogy Standards indicate the following things are necessary when using DNA to help answer a research question (paraphrased, reorganized, and simplified from what is in the book):

• test the right descendants with the right test(s) at the right company or companies to obtain the information needed to answer the research question (Standard 51) (For "DNA Standards - Part 2" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-2.html.)
  
• select matches and/or target-test others with the right test (Standard 51) (For "DNA Standards - Part 2" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-2.html.)
  
• analyze the DNA results accurately and in-depth (Standard 52) (For "DNA Standards - Part 3" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-3.html.)
  
• integrate the thoroughly researched and analyzed DNA and documentary evidence; logically sequence and clearly illustrate the DNA analysis and the documentary analysis in a written conclusion; accurately and completely cite all sources (Standards 1–8, 55, 56, 65, 74) (For "DNA Standards - Part 3" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-3.html.)
  
• ensure enough people have tested to support the conclusion (Standard 53) (For "DNA Standards - Part 4" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-4.html.)
• support every parent-child link in the line from all test takers to the hypothesized ancestors with documentary evidence (Standard 2) (For "DNA Standards - Part 5" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-5.html.)
• identify familial relationships (where appropriate), present the conclusion as a genetic link only if the DNA supports that conclusion, explain any insufficient research (Standards 50, 56, 65, 74) (For "DNA Standards - Part 6" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-6.html.)
• make the DNA data available for verification, as much as possible within the limits of test taker permissions (Standard 54) (For "DNA Standards - Part 7" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-7.html.)
• publish or share only as a living test taker’s permission allows (Standard 57) (For "DNA Standards - Part 8" see https://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2019/03/dna-standards-part-8.html.)

There are many genealogical questions that can be answered without DNA evidence. However, if DNA is used these things should be considered along with all the standards that are not specific to using DNA.

Each of these bullet items will be discussed further in separate posts. The last three bullets seem to be causing the most discussion between genealogists.

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All statements made in this blog are the opinion of the post author. This blog is not sponsored by any entity other than Debbie Parker Wayne nor is it supported through free or reduced price access to items discussed unless so indicated in the blog post. Hot links to other sites are provided as a courtesy to the reader and are not an endorsement of the other entities except as clearly stated in the narrative.

1. mohamed_hassan, DNA helix, Pixabay (https://pixabay.com/en/silhouette-dna-biology-medicine-3691934); Pixabay license, image modified by Debbie Parker Wayne.

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To cite this blog post:
Debbie Parker Wayne, "DNA Standards - Part 1," Deb's Delvings, 4 March 2019 (http://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/ : accessed [date]).

© 2019, Debbie Parker Wayne, Certified Genealogist®, All Rights Reserved

Learning DNA and Getting Help with Analysis Tools

More people are jumping into DNA testing and genetic genealogy who are not experienced in DNA or genealogy before taking that first DNA test. Joining a social media group or a mail list or forum provides exposure to many programs and tools, terms, and techniques that make it seem like a fire hose is aimed at you at full blast.

It is great to jump in. It is great to ask questions to learn. But you never know how much the person answering you knows. And they may not even know they are giving you information that is not completely accurate because they misunderstood your question.

Below are some places to (1) learn more about DNA and (2) get better help when one of the DNA tools does not work as you expected.

To learn the basics of DNA you can

• attend an institute if you can afford to be away from home for an entire week and cover the travel costs; see
  Genealogical Research Institute of Pittsburgh (GRIP),
  Institute of Genealogy and Historical Research (IGHR),
  Institute for Genetic Genealogy (I4GG), and
  Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy (SLIG) in the U.S.
  
• study recorded (fee) courses and sessions at
  Virtual Institute of Genealogical Research and
  Institute for Genetic Genealogy (I4GG)
  
• study (the freely available) Kelly Wheaton's Beginner’s Guide to Genetic Genealogy at
  https://sites.google.com/site/wheatonsurname/beginners-guide-to-genetic-genealogy/
  
• study (the freely available) articles by Debbie Parker Wayne linked from
  http://debbiewayne.com/presentations/gatagacc_biblio.php#found1
  
• study one or more of the more recent books listed at
  http://debbiewayne.com/presentations/gatagacc_biblio.php#found2 (highly recommended by many are Genetic Genealogy in Practice workbook and Family Tree Guide to DNA ...)
  
• National Genealogical Society (NGS) DNA course authored by Debbie Parker Wayne,
  Continuing Genealogical Studies: Genetic Genealogy, Autosomal DNA
  
• NGS DNA course authored by Thomas Shawker,
  Continuing Genealogical Studies: Introduction to Genetic Genealogy
  
• study many of the blogs and other resources linked from
  http://debbiewayne.com/presentations/gatagacc_biblio.php
  
• join and study tools and educational materials at DNA Central
  

Start small when learning something new and build up to higher levels. This applies to studying DNA using the recommendations above and to learning new tools.

When learning a new tool or process test first with a small dataset. For example, when I first downloaded the version of Progeny Charting Companion that creates DNA analysis charts, I created a small RootsMagic database with only four DNA test takers and the direct lines back to their shared ancestors (as shown in the chart above). I created a dummy CSV file with the minimum amount of data needed for those test takers' DNA data (as defined in the Charting Companion's help files). I used this small dataset to play with the charts offered by Charting Companion until I understood how the options worked to get the output I desired. Once I was comfortable using the tool I then accessed my full RootsMagic database after adding the new facts needed for DNA charts to work properly (like DNA kit numbers for each test taker).


After you begin using a new tool, it may not always work as expected and you may need help. To get better help when one of the DNA analysis tools does not work as expected (most of this applies to any program or app)

• read the instructions (built-in help files, a user's guide, how-to instructions on the program's website)
  
• really read the instructions—do not just scan them—and be sure you followed every step carefully, including the steps that are linked into or referenced from the first help page you access (most problems are due to not following instructions; trust me on this, I worked tech support and trained computer users for much of my "life before genealogy")
  
• if you followed the instructions carefully and still have problems, make note of any error messages displayed (or failure mode) and step-by-step what you did just before the failure or error
  
• use Google or another engine to search for the error message or failure mode (if the program uses Facebook to offer technical support, use Facebook's "Search this group" feature)
  
• if potential solutions are found try them
  
• if no solution is found by searching or the solutions found do not work for you, then post a message asking for help; include
  
  • the tool name and version of the tool you are using (also indicate if you recently updated the tool)
    
  • the error message received or exactly what you saw that was not "right"
    
  • the step-by-step list of what was done before the error message was received or the program failed
    
  • whether you are using a Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, or other device and the version of that operating system
    
  • whether this is something that worked in the past or this is your first time to try this procedure
    

These recommendations should help you get better technical support and help you learn new programs and DNA analysis more productively.

Update 23 July 2018: Fixed minor typo, added NGS online training courses, and added to disclaimer royalties for courses and books.

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All statements made in this blog are the opinion of the post author. This blog is not sponsored by any entity other than Debbie Parker Wayne nor is it supported through free or reduced price access to items discussed unless so indicated in the blog post. Hot links to other sites are provided as a courtesy to the reader and are not an endorsement of the other entities except as clearly stated in the narrative.

Debbie Parker Wayne receives royalties for the NGS course she authored on autosomal DNA analysis and books for which she is an author or editor.

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To cite this blog post:
Debbie Parker Wayne, "Learning DNA and Getting Help with Analysis Tools," Deb's Delvings, 21 July 2018 (http://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/ : accessed [date]).

© 2018, Debbie Parker Wayne, Certified Genealogist®, All Rights Reserved

DNA Simulation added to DNA Matrix in Progeny Charting Companion

Pierre Clouthier, president of Progeny Genealogy, has been raising the bar for DNA analysis charts in a genealogy program for the last year or so. He was the first to automate the "McGuire Chart" in his "DNA Matrix" tools. See http://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2017/03/wanted-genetic-genealogy-analysis-tools.html and http://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/2017/06/one-dna-analysis-chart-process.html for more info.

Progeny just released Charting Companion version 7 with a major addition to help during DNA analysis as described in his announcement below (URLs were changed to go directly to the Progeny website and not to the advertising site in the email sent to me so as not to mess with stats from email accesses).

Charting Companion 7 features a new technology to help place adoptees and orphans in a family tree: the DNA Simulation. Based on the DNA Matrix, the DNA Simulation will construct a Descendant tree, then will systematically try to link the "orphan" to every person in the tree, one at a time. Charting Companion will validate the tree by calculating the expected centiMorgan (cM) implied by the hypothetical relationship, and comparing it to the actual laboratory DNA test results. Each iteration is called a "scenario". If the DNA test results are outside the cM range, the scenario is bad, will be discarded, and Charting Companion will advance to the next possible position of the orphan in the tree. If the DNA results are consistent, the good scenario will be recorded. All possible scenarios can then be reviewed for further investigation. (see video [at https://youtu.be/yBe6Pd8g5no]).

In addition to linking to existing persons, Charting Companion will also insert hypothetical or placeholder spouses and children, and attempt to link the orphan to these additional people. The added persons represent potential extramarital relationships, previous unknown marriages, unknown children, children given up to adoption, non-paternal events, etc. They are meant to suggest possible connections that would otherwise be very time-consuming to evaluate manually.

The DNA Simulation is available in Charting Companion 7. See video [at https://youtu.be/yBe6Pd8g5no] for detailed explanation.

If you have an earlier version of Charting Companion, our upgrade policy is:

If you purchased within the last year, you get a free upgrade (contact [Progeny]).
If you purchased within two years, you get a 20% discount (contact [Progeny]).
Within three years, purchase a Registration Key [at http://progenygenealogy.com/Products/Family-Tree-Charts].

Charting Companion works with all genealogy programs: Family Tree Maker, RootsMagic, Legacy, Ancestral Quest, Family Historian, GEDCOM, etc.

Progeny Genealogy
10037-20 Silver Fox Ave. New Minas, Nova Scotia B4N 5K1 Canada
(902) 681-3102

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All statements made in this blog are the opinion of the post author. This blog is not sponsored by any entity other than Debbie Parker Wayne nor is it supported through free or reduced price access to items discussed unless so indicated in the blog post. Hot links to other sites are provided as a courtesy to the reader and are not an endorsement of the other entities except as clearly stated in the narrative.

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To cite this blog post:
Debbie Parker Wayne, "DNA Simulation added to DNA Matrix in Progeny Charting Companion," Deb's Delvings, 21 July 2018 (http://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/ : accessed [date]).

© 2018, Debbie Parker Wayne, Certified Genealogist®, All Rights Reserved

DNA Analysis Standards

20 June 2018: Updated link to DNA standards survey page.

This is part of a series on Genealogy Standards for using DNA. This series represents the opinions and interpretation of the proposed standards by this author and does not necessarily reflect BCG’s official position. The proposed standards are not being addressed in numerical order, but all articles will be linked. For other parts in the series see

• DNA Standards - Pedigree Analysis (Tree Analysis) (23 May 2018)
  

Way back in 2013 an Ad hoc committee formed to develop genetic genealogy standards. Those standards were released in January 2015 and are available at http://geneticgenealogystandards.com/.¹ These standards are recommended by many organizations and by most speakers covering DNA topics

Those original standards primarily deal with ethical issues. The plan was to eventually add technical standards with more details on depth of testing, resolution of tests, and many other critical elements of using DNA test results to answer genealogical questions. As with so many other things, life got in the way and the additional work was never completed.

In the intervening years, we have learned a lot more about using DNA test results effectively and how varied and "random" the results can be from one family to another. Real life results do not always match the statistical average predictions. By definition, an "average" is the typical result in a data set, but that means there are real results on either side of that average. This leads to many questions. How many men need to be tested in a Y-DNA line to prove or disprove a theory? How many markers should be tested? How many markers can differ? How big should an X-DNA segment be before you spend time searching for the common ancestor who passed it down to the people living today? There is no definitive answer to these questions. Many variables will affect the answer for a specific family under investigation although there are some general guidelines to consider.

Many of us think we need defined standards for using DNA evidence to reach a genealogical conclusion even though there is no "magic number" answer to many questions. What should a thorough researcher do when incorporating DNA evidence into a genealogical conclusion? What do you look for other than the name of the same ancestor when analyzing another person's family tree? How do you document the analysis?

Years ago researchers had similar questions related to documentary research. The community responded with books to provide guidance to researchers. A selected list includes Genealogy as Pastime and Profession in 1930 and revised in 1968,² Genealogical Research: Methods and Sources in 1960 and revised in 1980,³ Genealogical Evidence in 1979,⁴ Genealogical Standards of Evidence in 2010,⁵ and Elements of Genealogical Analysis in 2014.⁶

[Added: Mea culpa. I left off one of the best and newest books: Thomas W. Jones, Mastering Genealogical Proof (now Falls Church, VA: National Genealogical Society, 2013). And don't forget the analysis chapters at the beginning of Elizabeth Shown Mills, Evidence Explained, 3d. ed. (Baltimore, MD: Genealogical Publ. Co., 2015).]

The Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG) published The BCG Genealogical Standards Manual in 2000.⁷ This was reorganized, updated, and published as Genealogy Standards in 2014.⁸ These standards reflect best practices for the genealogical research community, not just those applying for BCG credentials. Some genealogists think these standards are all we need—that we do not need more specifics for DNA.

My colleague, Harold Henderson, CG, makes an excellent point as to why DNA standards should also be spelled out (paraphrased and used with permission): A highly competent genealogist would be able to formulate standards based only on the elements of the Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS).⁹ By expanding the concepts of the GPS into the Genealogy Standards, BCG saved time for us all. Each researcher can understand the fine points of performing quality documentary research without having to recreate the standards. Defined DNA Standards provide the same service for those seeking to incorporate DNA analysis.

DNA standards will help members of the general community

• Researchers adding DNA analysis to their skill set
  
• Authors incorporating DNA evidence
  
• DNA test takers and those requesting others to take tests
  
• Instructors teaching others to analyze DNA test results

DNA standards will also provide benefits for BCG

• Applicants and those renewing credentials will know what is expected when incorporating DNA
  
• BCG judges will all be judging to the same published standards for DNA
  
• Updated Genealogy Standards will reflect the current state of research (we have been using DNA for genealogy for over twenty years now and testing has increased exponentially in recent years)

The BCG Genetic Genealogy Committee has drafted a set of DNA Standards that reflect the practices of some of the most experienced genealogists using DNA today. BCG is surveying the community for input on these proposed standards. Some current Genealogy Standards are modified and expanded to more clearly define the needs when using DNA. New DNA Standards address DNA testing, interpreting DNA test results, identifying shared ancestry, accessing test results, and integrating DNA and documentary evidence. These standards are focused to provide specific guidance yet broad enough to allow for differing family composition and random factors encountered with DNA.

You can participate in the survey and provide your opinion through a Google Docs survey linked from https://bcgcertification.org/proposed-dna-standards-for-public-comment/. Please leave comments by 23 July 2018 explaining your agreement or disagreement with the proposed standards. Comments will be used to modify the standards as needed before acceptance and publication. There is also a link from which you can download a PDF file with the proposed standards.

Feel free to leave comments here, but only comments submitted through the official portal above will be considered by the committee.

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1. Genetic Genealogy Standards Committee, Genetic Genealogy Standards, http://geneticgenealogystandards.com/.
2. Donald Lines Jacobus, Genealogy as Pastime and Profession (1930, revised 1968; reprint, Baltimore, Maryland: Genealogical Publishing, 1999).
3. Genealogical Research: Methods and Sources, 2 vols. (Vienna, Virginia: American Society of Genealogists, 1980-1983).
4. Noel C. Stevenson, Genealogical Evidence: A Guide to the Standard of Proof Relating to Pedigrees, Ancestry, Heirship and Family History (Laguna Hills, California: Aegean Park Press, 1979).
5. Brenda Dougall Merriman, Genealogical Standards of Evidence (Toronto: Ontario Genealogical Society, 2010).
6. Robert Charles Anderson, Elements of Genealogical Analysis: How to Maximize Your Research Using the Great Migration Study Project Method (Boston: New England Historic Genealogical Society, 2014).
7. BCG Genealogical Standards Manual (Washington, DC: Board for Certification of Genealogists, 2000).
8. Board for Certification of Genealogists, Genealogy Standards, 50th anniversary ed. (Nashville, Tennessee: Turner Publ., 2014; https://bcgcertification.org/product/bcg-genealogy-standards/).
9. Board for Certification of Genealogists, "Ethics and Standards," scroll down to "Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS)" (https://bcgcertification.org/ethics/ethics-standards/).

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Full disclosure:

I have held Certified Genealogist® credentials from BCG since September 2010. I helped form the BCG Genetic Genealogy Committee to discuss DNA standards. I resigned from the committee due to personal commitments, but have continued to participate as an adviser, reviewer, and in other ways. I support the adoption of standards to be used when incorporating DNA analysis into a genealogical conclusion.

I support BCG seeking input on the proposed standards from the greater genealogical community using DNA. I see this as a positive step to ensure newly adopted standards will meet the needs of the entire research community. No matter what is adopted, updates will certainly be needed just as research methodology and documentary research standards have evolved over the decades.

All statements made in this blog are the opinion of the post author. This blog is not sponsored by any entity other than Debbie Parker Wayne nor is it supported through free or reduced price access to items discussed unless so indicated in the blog post. Hot links to other sites are provided as a courtesy to the reader and are not an endorsement of the other entities except as clearly stated in the narrative.

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To cite this blog post:
Debbie Parker Wayne, "DNA Analysis Standards," Deb's Delvings, 23 May 2018 (http://debsdelvings.blogspot.com/ : accessed [date]).

© 2018, Debbie Parker Wayne, Certified Genealogist®, All Rights Reserved