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Microscopic examination of different cell types as revealed by differential staining can be carried out by making a blood smear.  The purpose of this method is to obtain a single layer of cells on a microscope slide, which is then fixed and stained in the appropriate dyes.  Different types of cell (erythrocytes, lymphocytes, etc.) and components within the cell,  take up different stains, and this allows cells to be identified and counted.

Place a small drop of blood on one end of a clean dry microscope slide. Use a slide which has been cleaned in detergent and stored in absolute methanol or ethanol.  Place this slide on a table top.