Stop feeling overwhelmed by your DNA matches
Start identifying unknown ancestors with a step-by-step Plan
Learn the systematic approach that has helped genealogists solve brick walls and find new relatives
If you live outside the U.S. and want to purchase print copies of the Book or the Workbook, please click here to purchase.
With our ultimate DNA manual, you'll learn the skills you need to find the people you're looking for.
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Identify unknown biological ancestors back to 2x (or even 3x) great grandparents
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Fill in empty spots on your family tree--or verify your current paper trail
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Figure out who your DNA matches are using proven strategies
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Updated for 2025 to help you DO the DNA today!
The Problem: DNA Overwhelm
DNA has the power to help us discover who we are and where we come from. But using DNA to explore these questions can be tricky, frustrating and even confusing.
You're not alone if you feel:- Lost staring at hundreds of DNA matches with no clear starting point
- Frustrated trying random strategies that don't lead anywhere
- Overwhelmed by all the tools and techniques without knowing which to use when
- Stuck on the same family mysteries for years or even decades
What you need isn't more DNA matches. You need a systematic plan for organizing and analyzing the ones you have.
Real Results from Real Users
Christine
"I have helped 13 other people solve their family tree mysteries using the steps in this book. Hands down it is amazing :)"
Reg Bellman
"I purchased your book about two years ago.... I have found many cousins using the plans in the book."
Lilian
"I had a huge match that I didn't know....I came to the conclusion that my DNA match is in fact a half niece. DNA and paper trail, and your clear way of explaining it, got me there."
Your Step-by-Step DNA Plan
Your DNA Guide—the Book takes you step-by-step through the various ways of using DNA to answer questions about your origins. And it’s all in plain English. The companion Workbook helps you easily record your DNA discoveries as you work through the Book.
Together, they help you learn the essential process of harvesting clues from your DNA matches to identify your shared ancestry.
How the Book + Workbook help you get results
Clear Starting Points for Every Research Goal
- Step-by-step paths to help you identify a DNA match or search for biological parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, 2x, and even 3x great-grandparents
- Know exactly where to begin based on your specific family history question
- Skip the guesswork and follow proven processes
Organized Approach that Prevents Overwhelm
- Worksheets and charts keep you organized: Research goals, test logins, contact with matches, ancestral birthplaces, and more
- Track your progress systematically so nothing falls through the cracks
- Periodic check-ins to evaluate your progress and get new guidance or redirection
Practical Strategies that Actually Work
- Learn to build "quick and simple trees" for your DNA matches—more simply, more quickly
- Master techniques for communicating with matches more effectively
- Use ancestral ethnicity results strategically for genealogy research
Updated in 2025
- Reflects recent changes at DNA testing companies, including AncestryDNA Pro Tools
- Adds new chapter on Ancestry and MyHeritage tools for comparing DNA matches to each other
Visual Learning Support
- Colorful charts and illustrations show you what you're learning
- Learning guides help you master new terminology, strategies, and tools as you need them
- Tips for making your tree more DNA-friendly
About the Author
Diahan Southard, Founder and CEO
Diahan is a globally-renowned genetic genealogy educator who has helped thousands of people using DNA. She has poured 25 years of experience into creating this self-guided resource that can help everyone--yet still customizes each person's discovery path to meet their needs.
What Makes This Approach Different
Denys Allen
"The book is organized the way I wish all genealogy books were - to help me solve my research questions. I can skip around to what I need and then go use that information."
Rosemary
"Very easy to understand in plain English. Step by step instructions very helpful. A must for everyone researching their genetic family history."
Robert Price
"A well written textbook and reference book rolled into one--a how to do it book. A must in every genealogists library regardless of skill level."
Peter Tonkin
"A very comprehensive e-book. Using the link to the next relevant section is an easy way to navigate the book, and to understand and develop the required research steps. Thank you for putting this together."
Pam Paxton
"Diahan Southard and her team always publish thoughtful, organized and helpful DNA products. This workbook is no exception. The workbook helps you to organize your DNA information so it is at your fingertips. It guides you through steps to help you plan your DNA research. The book even asks you questions and gives explanations of your next best steps. There is also an icon for the "Your DNA Guide, The Book" that gives you page numbers to look up for more information. There are plenty of charts and diagrams to keep track of your progress and work. I would highly recommend this workbook for anyone who wants a good example of how to start your research with your DNA matches."
Critical Praise for Your DNA Guide—the Book
“It’s definitely not a ‘big overview of DNA testing’ book, but instead a ‘let’s get down and dirty and solve a brick wall problem’ book. And we definitely need a book like this.”
Drew Smith, The Genealogy Guys Podcast
"[Diahan’s] friendly, familiar tone could convince anyone that they can figure out this whole “DNA thing,” and with Southard’s clear, step-by-step instructions, they can."
Mary Kircher Roddy, FGS Magazine
"This book is unique. My first thought was this is just like the choose your own adventure books I used to read as a kid. It’s almost like having Diahan there to hold your hand while you work your way through your matches and find your family!”
Cheri Hudson Passey, Carolina Girl Genealogy
Ready to Transform Your DNA Research?
Join Christine, Lilian, Reg, Denys, Rosemary, Robert and hundreds of other genealogists who have used this step-by-step approach to solve family mysteries, break through brick walls, and identify unknown ancestors.