STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO USING A MICROPIPETTE CORRECTLY

Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Micropipette Correctly

Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Micropipette Correctly

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In today's labs, micropipettes are indispensable instruments. Accurate pipetting is essential for good outcomes whether you are studying biology, working in a research facility, or performing medical procedures. Using this instrument correctly may appear difficult if you are new to it, but with the perfect technique, it becomes instinctive. You can avoid frequent mistakes and learn how to operate a micropipette correctly with the help of this step-by-step instruction.

Knowing the Definition of a Micropipette
A micropipette is a piece of equipment used in laboratories to measure and move extremely small amounts of liquid, usually 0.1 µL to 1,000 µL. It is employed in tests where the results can be altered by even a slight change in the amount of liquid. Since the majority of micropipettes are customizable, you can alter the volume setting to suit your experiment.

Each size of micropipette, such as P10, P20, P200, and P1000, is appropriate for a particular volume range. The amount of liquid you need to measure will determine which option is best.

The Significance of Appropriate Technique
Although using a micropipette may seem easy, improper technique can result in contamination, erroneous readings, or sample damage. Particularly in delicate investigations like chemical tests or DNA extraction, proper handling guarantees the accuracy of the results.

Comprehensive Guide to Using a Micropipette
There are various cautious processes involved in using a micropipette. Every stage contributes to preserving accuracy and safeguarding your sample and the apparatus.

Step 1: Pick the appropriate micropipette.
First, choose the micropipette according to the volume you want. For instance, a P200, which covers 20–200 µL, would be perfect if you needed to pipette 150 µL. Accuracy is impacted when a pipette is used close to its upper or lower limit.

Step 2: Modify the Volume
To adjust the volume to your preferred level, turn the knob. Always make adjustments within the pipette's specified range. Exceeding it could harm the instrument.

Verify that the right volume has been set by looking at the analog or digital display.

Step 3: Include a Hint
Make sure the micropipette has a sterile, clean tip before drawing any liquid. In order to correspond with pipette types, tips are frequently color-coded: blue for P1000, yellow for P200, and so forth. To make sure the pipette fits securely, press it firmly into the tip.

Step 4: Wet the tip beforehand
Aspirate and distribute the liquid one or two times prior to the measurement to improve accuracy. This pre-wetting stage minimizes mistakes brought on by surface tension or evaporation and guarantees a constant sample volume.

Step 5: Sketch the Fluid
To reach the first stop—not the second—press the plunger.


  • The tip should be inserted 2–3 mm below the liquid's surface.

  • Draw the liquid into the tip by gradually releasing the plunger.

  • To prevent air bubbles or erroneous volume intake, do not plunge too rapidly.


Step 6: Pour the liquid out.
Position the tip against the receiving container's side at an angle.

  • To release the liquid, press the plunger to the first stop.

  • To release any last droplets, push the second stop.

  • To prevent splashing after dispensing, release the plunger and carefully move the tip along the container wall.


Step 7: Eject the tip in step seven.
Do not use the same tip twice. To safely remove a garbage container, press the ejector button over it. By taking this step, sample contamination is avoided.

Advice for Optimal Procedures
Use the pipette and tip appropriate to the volume range at all times.

  • When not in use, keep the micropipette upright.

  • To avoid damage, never set it down with liquid in the tip.

  • To ensure accuracy, clean and calibrate the pipette on a regular basis.


Final Thoughts
Anyone working in a lab environment needs to learn how to handle micropipettes. You will be well on your way to consistently getting precise, contamination-free results if you adhere to the preceding instructions. Effective use of a micropipette is essential for success in scientific work, regardless of whether you are a researcher honing your craft or a student just starting out.

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