Determine the starting pH of the indicator solution or any solution being tested. This can be done with pH paper strips, which change color under acidic or basic conditions; the color change is dependent on which type of pH strip is used. It is ideal to use a digital pH meter instead of a paper strip because this can be a little less tedious than using multiple strips.
Deacidify a solution that is too acidic by adding a small number of drops from a basic solution. Use the pipette to draw out the basic solution. Hold it over the indicator solution and slowly release it, one drop at a time. Depending on how potent the basic solution is or how close the indicator solution is to the pH level needed, one drop may be sufficient. Swirl the solution beaker gently so the drops mix into the liquid. If not swirled, the drops can conjugate around the meter and give a false reading.
Repeat the same process with the acidic solution to lower the pH if too much basic solution is added. If too much acidic solution is added, put in more basic solution drops. Keep doing so until the needed pH level is reached.