How to read a tape measure

Teach: How to read a tape measure

What to say

To read a tape measure, count whole inches by the numbers, then read the smaller lines between them by length: the longest line marks a half inch, the next a quarter, then eighths, and the shortest sixteenths. Most tapes also flag every 16 inches for stud spacing. The loose hook at the end is meant to slide, so leave it alone.

What to show, in order

1. Hook the end over the edge of the board, or push it flat against a wall for an inside measurement.
2. Read the last whole inch number before the point you are measuring.
3. Count the lines past that inch: the longest in the middle is one half, the next longest are quarters, then eighths, then sixteenths.
4. Add them up, for example 23 inches plus the quarter line reads 23 and 1/4.
5. Look for the highlighted numbers or boxes every 16 inches, which match common stud spacing.
6. Mark your measurement with a V whose point sits exactly on the line.
7. Measure twice before you cut once, from the same end each time.

The check question

Ask: Between two inch marks, which line is the longest? Answer: The half inch

From EveryManKnows. General information, not professional advice.