Ancestry Academy  > Education  >  AncestryDNA^® - Make the Most of Your Match List

Crista Cowan, corporate genealogist at Ancestry, provides a comprehensive guide on effectively utilizing the AncestryDNA match list. She begins by explaining the primary reasons people take DNA tests: to add a layer of genetic evidence to their family tree, to solve unknown parentage mysteries, and to break through genealogical brick walls. Crista emphasizes the importance of attaching DNA results to a family tree, even if it's just a basic one, to maximize the features available on Ancestry.

Crista then delves into the structure of the DNA match list, explaining how matches are categorized by relationship and the amount of shared DNA. She highlights the significance of understanding the predicted relationships and how users can edit these based on their knowledge. The webinar also covers the use of filters and search functions to manage the often overwhelming number of matches, allowing users to focus on specific connections or new matches.

A key feature discussed is the creation of custom groups to organize matches. Crista suggests using a color-coded system based on great-grandparents to help sort and identify matches, which can be particularly useful for solving family mysteries or verifying family tree connections. She encourages users to experiment with these groups as a discovery tool rather than a filing system, allowing for flexibility and adaptation as new information emerges.

Throughout the session, Crista provides practical tips and reassures participants that exploring and experimenting with their match list will not cause any irreversible changes. She concludes by encouraging attendees to engage with their DNA results actively, suggesting that finding a buddy to work through matches can enhance the experience.