DNA Testing for Genealogy: Connecting Results with FamilySearch

DNA Testing for Genealogy: Connecting Results with FamilySearch

This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to connect your DNA test results to a person in the FamilySearch Family Tree, enabling you to document your research.

Step 1: Access FamilySearch and the Individual's Person Page

• Go to FamilySearch.org and Sign In to your account.
• Once signed in, navigate to the Family Tree. You can do this by clicking Family Tree in the top menu and then selecting Tree or Recents to find the individual whose DNA test results you wish to link.
• Click on the individual's name to open their Person Card, then click on their name again or select Person to go directly to their detailed Person page. This is the page where you'll see tabs like "Details," "Sources," and "Memories."

Step 2: Navigate to the "Details" Tab and "Other Information" Section

• On the individual's Person page, ensure you are on the Details tab. This tab displays vital information, family members, and other biographical data.
• Scroll down the Details tab until you find the section labeled Other Information. This section lists various events and facts related to the person that aren't core vital records.

Step 3: Add a "DNA Test" Event

• Within the Other Information section, locate the Add Information dropdown menu (sometimes labeled Add Event). Click on it.
• From the list of available event types, select DNA Test. This action will add a new "DNA Test" field to the "Other Information" section.

Step 4: Enter DNA Test Details and Link

• A new row for "DNA Test" will appear. Click on the Add Event or Edit link associated with this new row.
• A pop-up window will appear, prompting you to enter details for the DNA Test.
• In the Type field, ensure "DNA Test" is selected.
• For the Date field, enter the approximate date the DNA test was taken or when the results were received.
• For the Description field, this is where you should specify the DNA testing company (e.g., "AncestryDNA Test," "23andMe Results," "MyHeritage DNA Test").
• Crucially, to link your results, you can include the URL to your specific DNA results page on the testing company's website directly within the Description field. For example: "AncestryDNA Test. Results found at: [Paste your AncestryDNA shared link here]".

• Important Note on Links: FamilySearch does not host or interpret DNA results. It only allows you to link to the external source. Ensure any link you provide is shareable or points to a public-facing summary if you intend others to view it (check your DNA provider's sharing options). If you prefer not to share a direct link, you can simply state the provider and that a test was taken.

• In the Reason field, briefly explain why you are adding this information (e.g., "To document genetic evidence for genealogical research" or "Provides genetic confirmation of family lines").

Step 5: Save the Information

• After filling in all the relevant details, click the Save button at the bottom of the pop-up window.
• The "DNA Test" information will now appear in the "Other Information" section of that individual's Person page, serving as a valuable record for your genealogical research within FamilySearch.