very simple question about hemocytometer cell counting - (Jul/16/2010 )

hi
I am new in cell culture and I am confused about correct protocol for cell counting using a hemocytometer, actually in our lab some people use the central square of hemocytometer for counting and others count four side squares and divide it to 4. which one is more correct?
best

The more squares you count, the more accurate your counts will be as counting a single square could result in you counting a square with fewer (or more) cells than average in the solution.

Ideally you should be counting 200-300 cells per side of the haemocytometer, and counting both sides to ensure that your counts are within 15% of each-other (for precision).