Autosomal DNA Basics

Finding Family Connections 

Autosomal DNA is one of the best tools we have to find "closer" genetic family matches.  As an example, if you are looking for your ancestor who you believe arrived with the Mayflower, this is not likely going to help you.  But if you are looking to determine a parent, sibling, grandparent and any number of various cousins, this is a great tool to use.  

Recombination

Autosomal DNA follows a somewhat predictable pattern and the fact is that while we inherit half of our DNA from our mother and half from our father, we do not necessarily inherit 25% from each grandparent.  

Check out my youtube video to help get a better understanding of recombination.  I call it the "jelly bean" recombination.  Jelly Bean Recombination Model - YouTube