Abstract: A system and method for distributing and agitating an amount of a liquid over a microscope slide, wherein a distribution plate having a microtextured lower surface and at least one passage extending through the plate is secured at a predetermined distance of 10-250 ?m above the microscope slide. Liquid passes through the passage in the distribution plate, and the distribution plate is transversely reciprocated relative to the microscope slide in the plane of the lower surface of the distribution plate or the plane of the upper surface of the microscope slide.