Key functions and methods

• Combines DNA and traditional research: A genetic genealogist uses the results from DNA tests, such as autosomal DNA, Y-DNA, and mitochondrial DNA, and compares them with traditional records like census and vital records to build and verify family trees.
• Identifies relationships: By analyzing shared DNA segments, they can determine close and distant relationships between individuals and identify potential living relatives.
• Helps with difficult cases: They assist with challenges like adoptions or unknown parentage by identifying biological relatives through DNA matches.
• Determines ancestral origins: They can provide insights into an individual's ethnic background and identify the geographic regions where their ancestors lived.
• Verifies or refutes theories: DNA evidence can confirm or deny existing family history theories, providing a powerful tool for research. 

• Autosomal DNA (atDNA): Analyzes a wide range of your DNA inherited from both parents and is useful for recent generations.
• Y-DNA: Examines the Y chromosome, which is passed down from father to son, to trace a paternal lineage.
• Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA): Looks at mitochondrial DNA, which is passed from a mother to all her children, to trace a maternal lineage. 
• Paternal Testing: Who is your daddy?