# Import samples

Import Samples from CSV file is an alternative way to populate Sample table and sample-level analysis settings on the Configuration page.

{% hint style="info" %}
Each CSV template is different depending on the Index Adapter Kit and number of Index Reads. To download a template, first make the appropriate selections in the Run Planning tool then use the Download Template link above the Sample Table.
{% endhint %}

## CSV Template

The CSV template only includes *editable columns* in the Sample Table and the sample-level analysis settings if applicable (e.g. for RNA Seq application with Differential Expression). Import will auto-populate the *derived* columns from the input data, e.g. Index names and sequences are derived from the respective Well Position.

* For custom or standard kit with fixed plates:
  * Sample ID\*, Well Position\*, Project, and sample-level analysis settings (if applicable)
* For custom or standard kit with fixed indexes:
  * If single index strategy is selected: Sample ID\*, I7 Index\* , Project, and sample-level analysis settings (if applicable)
  * If dual indexes strategy is selected: Sample ID\*, I7 Index\* , I5 Index\*, Project, and sample-level analysis settings (if applicable)
* For *Not Specified* kit:
  * If single index strategy is selected: Sample ID\*, Index 1\*, Project, and sample-level analysis settings (if applicable)
  * If dual indexes strategy is selected: Sample ID\*, Index 1\*, Index 2\*, Project, and sample-level analysis settings (if applicable)

> Columns marked with asterisks are mandatory.

## Import behaviors

* Import will fail if an incorrect CSV template is used (columns do not match the Sample table).
* All rows in the input CSV file will be imported.
* Invalid inputs will result in blank cells in the Sample table.
  * Invalid well position or Index name when custom or standard kit is used
  * Incorrect data type, e.g. string input when a number is expected
  * Out-of-range value
  * Invalid option for a *select or dropdown list* field
* If there are multiple rows defining the same Sample ID, the sample-level analysis settings must be consistent.
  * If different values are specified, the resulting sample-level analysis settings will be blank.

## Lane numbers

For instruments that support loading separate lanes, the CSV template also includes **Lanes** column.

* Enter one or more lane numbers in this column. When multiple lane numbers are specified, separate the values by commas.
* If a **Lanes** cell contains an invalid lane number, the resulting cell will be blank.