Find the longest marks for whole inches
Count the spaces between whole-inch marks
Each space is usually divided into fractions
The longest fraction mark is often 1/2 inch
The next shorter marks are usually 1/4 inch
Smaller marks may show 1/8 inch, 1/16 inch, or 1/32 inch
Read the mark closest to the object’s edge
Add the whole inches and the fraction
Use the printed numbers on the tape for quick inch reading
Check the tape’s fraction scale if it is labeled
Measure from the zero mark, not from the hook edge if it is loose
Confirm whether the tape uses inches, feet, or metric units