The stage on a microscope is the flat platform where the specimen to be viewed is placed. It holds the specimen in position and allows for translation of the specimen while scanning for details. The stage clips hold the slides in place, and if the microscope has a mechanical stage, the slide is controlled by turning two knobs instead of having to move it manually. One knob moves the slide left and right, and the other moves it forward and backward. A mechanical stage is often used when working on a specimen at a higher magnification, where delicate movement of the specimen is required. To see different areas of the specimen, the observer must physically move the slide.