How to format your excel file for GeneGlobe PCR Data Analysis
To get accurate results in GeneGlobe PCR Data Analysis tool, make sure your raw PCR threshold cycle (Ct) data is correctly formatted in Excel. This tutorial walks you through the exact file structure needed for a smooth upload and reliable analysis.
Learn how to correctly format your Excel upload file for smooth and successful GeneGlobe PCR data analysis.
Helpful resources before you begin
You can find the following resources on the Upload Dataset page:
- Handbook – downloadable as a PDF (upper right corner).
- Reference image – located at the lower right for quick orientation.
- Sample upload data Excel file – available after selecting your product. Replace the sample data with your own measurements before upload.
Formatting guidelines for off-the-shelf panels
Follow these steps when preparing data from standard (off-the-shelf) PCR panels:
- First column: lists the PCR plate well positions (e.g., A01–H12 or A01–P24).
- Second column: each subsequent column must contain the raw threshold cycle data for each sample from your PCR instrument.
- Alignment: make sure each data point lines up with the correct well position.
Formatting guidelines for custom panels and assays
- First column: lists either well positions (for custom panels) or assay numbers (for assays).
- Second and third columns: must list each assay’s target and its catalog number.
- Matching pairs: each target–catalog number combination must match exactly.
- Use the assay catalog numbers from your design or order form.
- Do not repeat the custom panel overall catalog number in every row.
- From the fourth column onward: enter the raw threshold cycle (Ct) data for each sample from your PCR instrument, aligned with the correct well position or assay number.
Setting up header rows
Your Excel file should include:
- First row: must contain your sample names above their respective raw data. Each sample name should be unique (you can add sequential numbers if needed).
- Second row (optional): used to define groups for replicate samples.
- There must be exactly one control group.
- Each sequentially numbered test group will be compared to this control group.
- Alternatively, leave the second row blank and use the sample manager tool later to group samples.
Final check before uploading your Excel file for GeneGlobe PCR Data Analysis
Following these simple formatting rules ensures that your Excel data uploads correctly and that your GeneGlobe PCR Data Analysis runs efficiently and accurately, saving time and preventing errors.
Visit the GeneGlobe Data Analysis Center to get started.