1. Preserve and identify the source
Retain the uploaded file unchanged and record its name, type, source data file fingerprint, import time, reader profile, and selected sheet. For a workbook, show sheet names before interpreting a rectangular range as a plate.
Reader exports may contain headers, metadata blocks, multiple wavelengths, calculated values, or several plates. A tested import profile should extract the intended measurement while preserving enough context to reproduce the decision.
2. Assign scientific meaning to each well
Use a visual grid to assign sample, role, replicate, dilution level, and inclusion state. Bulk mapping speeds repeated layouts; selected-well editing handles exceptions. Both should produce the same structured records.
Unmapped wells should remain visible. Validate that required references and controls exist, replicate identifiers make sense, dilution levels are complete, and no measurement disappears because its label was blank.
3. Derive concentrations in a reviewable table
For each sample, record initial concentration, dilution factor, number of levels, and unit. Generate concentration from those inputs while allowing a method-defined explicit series when dilutions are not uniform.
The long-form table should bring the calculated concentration beside the original well response. This is the bridge between the physical plate and the statistical model.
concentration(level n) = initial concentration ÷ dilution factor^(n − 1)4. Review replicates and spatial behavior
Summarize mean, sample standard deviation, and CV at each sample/concentration while preserving individual values. Inspect heatmaps or position-aware views for row, column, edge, timing, or dispense patterns.
Excluding a point should require a reason and retain the original value. Show the fitted result with and without exclusions during investigation where the procedure allows; the final report should identify the included analysis.
5. Fit, evaluate, and report
Choose the method-defined model, restrictions, weights, and suitability criteria. Display fit parameters, diagnostics, curve plot, calculated result, and criteria outcomes.
Connect report values to source wells and the analysis configuration. This lets downstream systems distinguish calculated results, the records that produced them, and the reviewer’s decision.
Frequently asked questions
What if the workbook has multiple sheets?
Select the intended sheet explicitly and preserve that selection. Do not automatically analyze the first sheet unless the reader profile guarantees its meaning.
Should replicate wells be averaged before curve fitting?
That is a method decision. Preserve every well either way, document the summarization rule, and ensure uncertainty calculations match the unit of analysis.
How should excluded wells appear in the report?
Identify the well, original value, reason, and effect on inclusion. Never delete or overwrite the source observation.