CGL Genetic Genealogy 3

Question 1

When teaching DNA basics to beginner genealogists, which analogy most effectively illustrates how autosomal DNA is randomly inherited and reduced with each generation?

Accepted Answer

A deck of cards that is shuffled and halved with each new generation

Answer

The shuffled deck of cards analogy effectively shows how DNA recombines randomly and is halved with each generation, helping beginners grasp why distant relatives share less DNA.

Question 2

When a DNA match is found that might resolve a brick wall ancestor, what is the most appropriate first step?

Accepted Answer

Build out the match's family tree to search for a common ancestor

Answer

Researching and building out the match's family tree to identify common surnames and potential ancestors is the critical first step before drawing relationship conclusions or contacting the match.

Question 3

Which overarching genealogical standard requires that DNA evidence be combined with documentary research rather than standing alone as proof?

Accepted Answer

The Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS)

Answer

The Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS) requires a reasonably exhaustive search, complete citations, analysis of all evidence, resolution of conflicts, and a written conclusion — DNA alone rarely meets this standard.

Question 4

When presenting ethnicity estimates from a DNA test, what key limitation must a genealogical lecturer disclose to the audience?

Accepted Answer

Ethnicity estimates are approximations based on reference populations that are periodically updated and subject to change

Answer

Ethnicity estimates are calculated using reference population panels that evolve over time, meaning results are approximations that can shift as companies improve their data, not definitive statements of ancestry.

Question 5

The 'Leeds Method' is a DNA clustering technique that typically groups autosomal DNA matches into how many color-coded clusters?

Accepted Answer

Four clusters representing each of the four grandparent lines

Answer

The Leeds Method, developed by Dana Leeds, clusters autosomal DNA matches into four color-coded groups that typically correspond to each of an individual's four grandparent family lines.

(CGL) Certified Genealogical Lecturer Practice Test

(CGL) Certified Genealogical Lecturer Practice Test

CGL Genetic Genealogy 3