Why did my reaction fail?

None of us enjoys receiving a sequence trace which displays only background noise indicating a failed reaction.

Unlike other sequencing issues, a failed reaction provides few clues to the reason for the lack of sequence. The failure can involve an issue with either the template or primer. Therefore, a systematic approach to distinguishing between the two can save time and reduce costs.

The following flow chart provides a step-wise process to help determine the cause of a failed reaction.