Edit a DNA sequence

Use this workflow when you need to modify a sequence, such as correcting a mutation, inserting a feature, or adjusting a coding region.

Before you start

  • A sequence is open in Sequence view.
  • You know the region you want to modify.

Step 1 — Select the region to edit

  1. Click and drag to select the bases you want to change.
  2. Adjust the selection before you type so only the intended region is highlighted.
  3. If the bases are crowded, zoom in before you edit.

Selected region in Sequence view Select the exact bases first so the edit stays confined to the region you intend to change.

Step 2 — Make the edit

  1. Type directly to replace the selected sequence.
  2. If nothing is selected, place the caret where you want the change and insert new bases.
  3. Use Delete or paste sequence when you need to remove or replace a short block.
  4. The sequence updates immediately as you type.

Sequence workspace during direct editing Edit directly in Sequence view so you can watch the change in context as you type.

Step 3 — Review the result

  1. Check that the sequence reflects your intended change.
  2. Review nearby features if the edit touches a CDS, primer site, restriction site, or another annotated region.
  3. If you are editing coding sequence, turn on Protein or ORFs to confirm the reading frame and translation still look correct.

Check your result

  • The correct region was modified.
  • No unintended bases were changed.
  • Features and annotations still align.

If it doesn’t look right

  • Unexpected amino acid changes: check for a frameshift with Protein or ORFs turned on.
  • Feature moved or disappeared: verify the edit boundaries around the annotated region.
  • Wrong region edited: correct the bases, then reselect more carefully.

What to do next