Paternal Lines: Using Y-DNA

This lecture covers the basics of Y-DNA testing for males, and how to find DNA projects and testing companies. An introduction to analysis of the DNA test results is given.

Sample genealogical research problems are used to explain how DNA can be used by genealogists.

Your genealogical goal will determine which DNA test you need and which person in your family should take the test. In general:

Y-DNA tests trace the lineage from father to son and follow a surname in western society; Y-DNA tests can only be performed on a male subject, but a woman can recruit a male relative to take the test; the test can be performed on a male of any generation of the lineage without significantly affecting the test results

This chart demonstrates Y-DNA inheritance. Squares represent men. Circles represent women. Navy represents those with Y-DNA inherited from the man at the top of the chart.
Y DNA pedigree

See Debbie's GATA GACC! DNA and Genetic Genealogy presentation for basic DNA information.

See Debbie's Maternal Lines: Using Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) presentation for mtDNA information.

See Debbie's Going Nuclear: DNA Discoveries to Trace All Lines of Descent presentation for Autosomal DNA (atDNA) information.

See Debbie's List of DNA Reference Works for a selected bibliography of genetic genealogy references online and in print.

CG and Certified Genealogist are service marks of the Board for Certification of GenealogistsŽ, used under license by board certificants after periodic evaluation.