In pipetting components for PCR, which variable is most important for success?

In the context of PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) where precise and accurate measurement of components is critical, the most important variable for success is pipetter accuracy. Accuracy refers to how close a measured value is to the true value or the target concentration of the reagent being pipetted. In PCR, even minor deviations from the intended volumes can significantly affect the efficiency of the reaction, leading to poor amplification or non-specific results.

When pipetting components such as DNA template, primers, and nucleotides, any inaccuracies can skew the final concentrations in the reaction mixture, which impacts enzyme activity and ultimately the yield and specificity of the PCR products. Thus, ensuring that the pipetting is accurate is paramount for reproducible and reliable results in a PCR experiment.