Flow cytometry compensation standards are essential for correcting fluorescence spillover, which occurs when the emission spectra of different fluorochromes overlap, potentially leading to inaccurate data interpretation in multicolor assays. These standards typically include single-stained controls, which help determine spillover coefficients for each fluorochrome, and multicolor compensation controls that simulate realistic experimental conditions. 

To achieve accurate compensation, it is crucial to use appropriate controls that match the experimental samples, employ automated compensation methods to minimize human error, and regularly calibrate flow cytometers with standard beads. By following these best practices, researchers can ensure their flow cytometric analyses accurately reflect true biological phenomena rather than artifacts from spectral overlap.