Two years ago, I took a year long workshop type course on working with DNA run by Diahan Southard. The course focused primarily on Autosomal DNA and presented some well structured and thought out workflow plan for identifying and working with one's DNA match list.  I shared a blog post last year that featured the free first four portions of the material we covered when Diahan presented her techniques at RootsTech2024. You can read about them and access the videos from 2024 at this link . Following up this past spring in 2025, Diahan presented two more free installments of her "Plan" at RootsTech 2025. I am including these here.  Best Matches -  https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/how-just-one-match-can-help-you-find-missing-ancestors-in-2025 Combine Test Types for more insight -  https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/combine-multiple-dna-test-types-how-atdna-ydna-mtdna-atdna-more-answers Hot summer afternoons present an excellent excuse to t...

I have had a lot of folks asking lately about how to start understanding their autosomal DNA match lists. The very best teacher for a beginner is Diahan Southard aka Your DNA Guide.  This post was shared just after RootsTech 2024 in the spring but it is definitely worth sharing again. Save the post link for future reference!  Diahan Southard has been involved in Genetics and Genetic Genealogy for over 20 years. She started at Sorenson Molecular Genealogy Foundation, the pioneer genetic genealogy database. In the ensuing years, she has earned her place as one of the most popular teachers of genetic genealogy in the field today. I took one of her yearlong DNA Study Groups and a peek at some of my favorite concepts and strategies can be found in videos 3, 4, & 5. Of course, if you are brand new to Genetic Genealogy start with the short bonus video - What is a Centimorgan? Enjoy this short video series created to get you started in the easy, no-pressure style that Diahan has ...