About
Genealogy Explained is a comprehensive educational website dedicated to making family history research accessible to everyday enthusiasts. Founded by Marc McDermott, an investigative genetic genealogist, the site breaks down complex genealogical concepts into clear, actionable guides suited for beginners and experienced researchers alike. The platform covers a wide range of topics including how to start genealogy research, understanding DNA test results, navigating popular genealogy websites like Ancestry and FamilySearch, and interpreting key record types such as census, immigration, and military records. It also offers proven research methodologies like the Genealogical Proof Standard and cluster genealogy. Free interactive tools are a standout feature — including a Shared cM Project Graph for relationship probability, a 23andMe raw data converter, a cousin calculator, and a DNA match spreadsheet template. The site also hosts deep-dive resource hubs organized by topic and region (Irish, Italian, German genealogy, etc.). For those wanting to go deeper, Genealogy Explained offers a store with in-depth paid guides on topics like census records, death records, and finding unknown parentage. A weekly newsletter delivers tips, free guides, and research shortcuts directly to subscribers. Ideal for weekend-warrior genealogists, beginners hitting brick walls, adoptees searching for biological roots, and anyone curious about their family heritage.
Key Features
- Step-by-Step Genealogy Guides: Comprehensive, beginner-friendly tutorials covering everything from starting your first family tree to advanced research methodologies like the Genealogical Proof Standard.
- DNA Test Comparisons & Reviews: In-depth comparisons and reviews of leading DNA tests including AncestryDNA and 23andMe, helping users choose the right kit and interpret their results.
- Free Interactive Research Tools: Includes a Shared cM Project Graph, cousin calculator, 23andMe raw data converter, and DNA match spreadsheet to assist with relationship analysis.
- Record Type & Regional Research Hubs: Dedicated guides for census, immigration, and military records, plus country-specific research guides for Irish, Italian, German, and other ancestral origins.
- Paid In-Depth Guides & Newsletter: A store with premium research guides on specialized topics, plus a weekly newsletter delivering tips, shortcuts, and free resources to subscribers.
Use Cases
- A first-time researcher learning how to start building their family tree using beginner guides and a structured roadmap.
- An adoptee or someone with unknown parentage using the Biological Roots Blueprint guide and DNA tools to find biological relatives.
- A hobbyist comparing AncestryDNA vs. 23andMe before purchasing a DNA test kit to explore their ethnic heritage.
- A researcher using the free cM calculator and cousin relationship tools to interpret DNA matches and determine family connections.
- Someone with Irish or Italian ancestry following country-specific guides to locate overseas records and trace immigrant ancestors.
Pros
- Beginner-Friendly Content: Content is clearly written for non-experts, making complex genealogical concepts easy to understand and act on without prior research experience.
- Free Tools & Resources: Offers a suite of no-cost interactive tools and access to 26+ free genealogy databases, reducing the financial barrier to family history research.
- Broad Topic Coverage: Covers DNA, record types, research methods, website reviews, and regional guides — making it a one-stop educational resource for genealogists.
Cons
- Not an AI-Powered Platform: The site is primarily a static educational resource and does not leverage AI or automation to assist with research tasks directly.
- Premium Content Requires Purchase: Deeper guides and specialized cheat sheets are sold separately in the store, which may be a barrier for users seeking fully free resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Genealogy Explained designed for?
It's designed for weekend-warrior genealogists — hobbyists and beginners who want to learn how to trace their family history without a professional background in genealogy.
Is Genealogy Explained free to use?
The majority of content, guides, and interactive tools on the site are free. However, the store offers premium in-depth guides available for purchase.
What free tools does Genealogy Explained provide?
The site offers a Shared cM Project Graph for DNA relationship probabilities, a cousin calculator, a 23andMe raw data converter, and a DNA match spreadsheet template.
Does the site cover DNA genealogy?
Yes. There are comprehensive guides on understanding DNA results, reviews and comparisons of major DNA testing services like AncestryDNA and 23andMe, and tools to help interpret centimorgan data.
Can I find regional or country-specific genealogy guidance?
Yes. Genealogy Explained includes dedicated resource hubs for country-specific research such as Irish, Italian, and German genealogy, with guides tailored to the records and archives of each region.
