The need for the original use of the word contig has not diminished, but the current diversity of uses is causing confusion. Here we explain the origins of the term. The Sanger shotgun sequencing method relies on using computer programs to find matches to order sets of overlapping clones (Staden,R. "A strategy of DNA sequencing employing computer programs", Nucleic Acids Res. 7, 2601-2610, 1979). To aid discussion of this new class of object the word contig was invented (Staden,R. "A new computer method for the storage and manipulation of DNA gel reading data", Nucleic Acids Res. 8, 3673-3694 (1980)).   »Read More