GraphPad Prism remains a preferred app for scientists for data analysis, especially when running ELISA and calculating concentrations. Whether you’re a seasoned user or just starting out on the software, there are a number of advanced tips and tricks that can help you get more out of GraphPad and make your data analysis process more efficient. 

1.    Keyboard Shortcuts: 

GraphPad Prism offers a variety of keyboard shortcuts that can save time and make data analysis process more efficient. As a seasoned user, you may already know some of these: the most useful shortcuts include Ctrl + D for duplicating a graph, Ctrl + Shift + S for saving a graph, Ctrl+T to insert a new table, Ctrl+G to insert a new graph, and Ctrl+Shift+D to duplicate an analysis. See the full list of keyboard shortcuts: https://www.graphpad.com/guides/prism/latest/user-guide/keyboard_shortcuts.htm

2.    Prism’s built-in formulae: 

A variety of built-in functions, such as mean, standard deviation, and confidence intervals are already incorporated into Prism. Simply use these functions to perform calculations on your data without having to manually enter the formula each time.

3.    Use “Global Info”: 

If you have information that is common to all analyses or graphs in your project, you can use the “Global Info” feature. This can be done to apply global fitting of nonspecific binding curves and for designating global / shared parameters for equations.

4.    Compare columns: 

If you have multiple data columns in your table, you can use the “Compare Columns” feature to compare the values in each column. This can be useful for identifying trends or differences between the columns.

5.    Link your data: 

If you have multiple graphs or tables that share the same data, you can use the “Linking” feature to synchronize the data between the graphs or tables. This can save you time and ensure that your project is consistent.

6.    Use the data transformation feature to standardize your data: 

For data that may be in different units, you can use the data transform feature to standardize to a single unit. 

7.    Batch Processing: 

If you need to analyse multiple datasets, consider using the batch processing feature for your data. This feature allows you to automate the analysis of multiple datasets and create graphs in bulk, saving you time and effort.

8.    Use the merge feature to combine analyses: 

Another step for multiple datasets that you may have, the merge function allows you to view multiple analyses into one table or graph. This can be useful if you have multiple analyses that you want to compare or present together. 

9.    Use error bars to show variability: 

Error bars can help you visualize the variability in your data. You can add error bars to your graph in Prism by selecting the graph and clicking on the “Graph Options” button.

10.    Import Data Easily: 

GraphPad Prism makes it easy to import data from a variety of sources, including spreadsheets, databases, and other scientific software. When importing data, make sure to double-check the data to ensure that it has been correctly formatted, and consider using the “Clean” feature to remove any extraneous information.

11.    Data Validation: 

Data validation is an important step in the data analysis process, and GraphPad Prism offers several tools to help you validate your data. For example, you can use the “Data Validation” feature to check for outliers, or use the “Data Integrity” feature to make sure that your data is accurate and complete.

12.    Automate your analysis: 

GraphPad Prism offers a number of ways to automate your analysis, including batch processing and the creation of macros. Automating your analysis can save you time and effort, allowing you to quickly and easily perform repetitive tasks and get results more quickly. Prism has built-in automation tools that can help you speed up your analysis, such as the ability to perform batch analysis and create templates for commonly used analysis.

13.    Use pre-made or custom templates: 

GraphPad Prism offers a number of templates that can help you get started with your analysis, including templates for common experimental designs, graphs, and statistics. This can be particularly useful for projects that have a large set of samples, run over a period of time. 

14.    Easily organize your data: 

Prism includes a variety of tools for organizing your data, such as the ability to sort and filter data, create subgroups, and merge datasets. These tools can help you work more efficiently and ensure that your data is organized correctly.

15.    Customize your Worksheet to suit your specific needs: 

For example, you can change the background colour, font size, and column width to make your data easier to read and more organized. You can also rearrange columns and add new columns as needed.

Of course, if you are just starting out, or want detailed step-by-step instructions on how you can use the above features, GraphPad prism has an intensive tutorial blog available online at: https://www.graphpad.com/guides/prism/latest/user-guide/how_to_learn_prism.htm

Don’t want to use GraphPad but require a simple ELISA software? Use Krishgen’s simple ELISA calculation table: https://www.krishgen.com/elisacalculation