However, by using FTM filters my productivity in completing the table has been vastly improved.

At the time, I felt it was useful as it made me refocus but there were certainly better uses of my time. When I first started using the DNA confirmation table, the process for each update was very labour intensive and required lots of analysis to double check all my data sources. I have been using table since 2012 following a post by Roberta Estes on her blog DNAeXplained, but have made some changes to its structure over the years. The following is an example of my DNA confirmation table, it is regularly updated on my DNA Research Summary at Wikitree. This post further elaborates on the 3 indicators including how FTM filters can help you monitor your progress against each and identify priority research areas. In my process I have 3 levels of DNA confirmation indicators (refer Part 1 - Images post). The DNA indicator at DNA Painter is a 'one size fits all' and this can lead to incorrect conclusions. Whilst DNA Painter has another tool for this, I believe it is too broad. * keep track of where you have 'DNA confirmed' your ancestors and where there are gaps. * grow your tree so you know as many ancestors as possible, ideally out to at least 5th great grandparents (254 ancestors), this is also known as 'tree completeness'. I regularly publish a table outlining my progress, to help keep me motivated. It is important to both: The advantage of using these is that as it is a 'One World Tree' other researchers are continually adding to your branches and may just link up your match, without you needing to do anything! My confirmed pedigree is published to Wikitree, a free genealogical site that everyone can access, it provides many links you can send to your DNA matches from your tree. They are presented for use in FTM but can be utilised for all family history programmes. This series of posts is aimed at methods I employ to keep my DNA research organised and to help make me more productive when navigating my ever growing tree.

This tree has become very large as I add potential lines of enquiry for DNA matches I have not yet linked to my own tree. I like to do all my DNA research in my Family Tree Maker tree (FTM) and then sync to Ancestry.

Family tree maker 2006 essentials