After the chromatogram has dried, one can identify the spots.
If the spots can be seen, outline them with a pencil. Sometimes the color will fade over time, so the pencil outline is important.
If the spots are not obvious, the most common visualization technique is to hold the paper under an ultraviolet lamp. (Caution: Do not look directly into the lamp!) Many organic compounds can be seen using this technique. Outline the spots with a pencil, while the chromatogram is under the UV lamp.
