How to Measure Accurately With Tapes

Tape measures can be used to measure many different objects.

Tape measures are a common household item used to measure length and width of objects. When you are measuring with a tape, it is important that you know how to properly read the tape. By following a few simple instructions, you can learn how to use a tape measure.

Things You'll Need

• Board
• Tape measure

Instructions

1. Lay out the board or other object you are going to measure. Place it on a flat and even surface so it does not slide when your are measuring it.

2. Pull the metal end of the tape measure out and place it on the end of the board. Hold the board with your non-dominant hand and pull the tape measure out the length of the board with your dominant hand.

3. Locate the "1" at the bottom of the tape. It will usually be black. Count the number of lines between the number "1" and the number "2," starting at the big line above the 1. If there are 16 lines, the tape measure can read to the nearest 1/16-inch.

4. Find the number on the tape that is closest to the other end of the board. Count the number of lines from that number to the end of the board. If 42 is the closest full inch to the end of the board, your measurement will start with 42.

5. Count all of the lines for the exact measurement. If there are 13 lines to the end of the board, the measurement will read 42-13/16 inches.

References

• You Tube: How to read a tape measure