Place the graduated cylinder on a flat, level surface
Make sure the cylinder is upright
Pour the liquid into the cylinder
Wait for the liquid to settle
Bring your eyes to the same level as the liquid surface
Read the measurement at the bottom of the meniscus for most liquids
Read the measurement at the top of the meniscus for mercury
Use the marked units on the cylinder
Estimate between the smallest marked divisions if needed
Record the measurement with the correct units