Following the right sample preparation steps helps to preserve the integrity of the sample, prevent contamination and most importantly, improve accuracy.
For example, if the analytical method requires a liquid sample but the technician only has access to a solid state sample such as dried flower, the specimen may need to be dissolved in a solvent to achieve a liquid form.
Naturally, samples undergoing HPLC analysis to identify cannabinoids will require different preparation steps to samples used for Polymerase Chain Reaction analysis to determine strain.
While a scientist may not need to consider the downstream application when analysing a cannabis sample harvested from a crop, special care must be taken when analysing finished products destined for pharmaceutical shelves.