Find the zero mark on the tape
Place the zero mark at the starting edge of what you are measuring
Read the largest numbered mark before the end point
Count the smaller lines after the last whole inch or centimeter
Use the longest lines for whole units
Use medium lines for half units
Use shorter lines for smaller fractions
Check whether the tape uses inches, feet, centimeters, or millimeters
Read the measurement at the point where the object ends
Keep the tape straight for an accurate reading