1. Collection of the Sample: Samples can be obtained from various sources such as blood, body fluids, or tissue scrapings. 2. Spreading the Sample: The sample is spread thinly and evenly on a glass slide using a spreading instrument, commonly another slide or a cover slip. 3. Fixation: To preserve cellular structures, the smear is fixed using chemicals like ethanol or methanol. 4. Staining: The fixed smear is stained to enhance contrast and detail. Common stains include Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E), Giemsa, and Wright's stain.