Paternal or Maternal - Where Does This Match Fit?

Unlocking the secrets of autosomal DNA is a game-changer for family historians seeking to break through stubborn brick walls and organize their match lists. In this compelling Legacy Family Tree Webinars presentation, genetic genealogy expert Paul Woodbury breaks down practical strategies for sorting DNA matches into distinct paternal and maternal lines. Whether tackling cases of unknown parentage or refining an established tree, understanding how to systematically categorize genetic cousins transforms complex raw data into actionable genealogical discoveries.

• Target Testing Strategy: Testing a known biological parent provides the ultimate filter for categorizing matches, while testing close relatives like half-siblings, aunts, uncles, or first cousins offers a valuable, though partial, sorting mechanism.
• Triangulation vs. Overlapping Opposites: When three or more individuals share a specific segment on the same chromosome copy, they triangulate to a common ancestral source, whereas non-matching individuals who overlap on the same chromosomal region represent opposite parental sides.
• Evaluating Segment Significance: Utilizing tools like the DNA Painter Centimorgan Estimator allows researchers to calculate the centimorgan value of overlapping segments, helping to verify whether a non-triangulated segment truly signals distinct parental lines or merely a minor crossover event.

To fully harness these techniques and elevate your genetic research, dive into the complete recording of Paul Woodbury's presentation. Watching the full webinar provides step-by-step visual demonstrations of chromosome browser tools, segment analysis, and advanced concepts like identifying recombination points and navigating endogamy. Genealogists are also invited to explore the extensive syllabus materials included with the session, which offer invaluable reference guides, instructional diagrams, and curated learning paths to support your journey toward solving complex family mysteries.