To read a tape measure, especially an imperial one, follow these steps:

• Identify the inch marks: The longest lines on the tape represent whole inches. These are usually numbered and are the largest marks on the tape

• Understand the fractional divisions: Each inch is divided into smaller fractions, typically 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, and 1/16 of an inch. The length of the lines decreases as the fractions get smaller. For example, the half-inch mark is longer than the quarter-inch mark, which is longer than the eighth-inch mark, and so on

• Counting the fractions: Between two whole inches, there are usually 16 small lines, each representing 1/16 of an inch. For example, the 4th small line after the 5-inch mark would be 5 and 4/16 inches, which simplifies to 5 and 1/4 inches

• Taking a measurement: Place the tape measure's hook at the start of the object you want to measure, extend the tape to the other end, and note the nearest inch mark plus the fractional mark closest to the end. For example, if the measurement passes the 5-inch mark and stops at the 7th 1/16 line after it, the measurement is 5 and 7/16 inches

• Metric tape measures: These are marked in centimeters and millimeters. There are 10 millimeters in a centimeter, and 100 centimeters in a meter. The centimeters are numbered, but millimeters are usually not numbered, just marked as small lines between centimeters

• Using the tape: Hook or press the tape's metal end against the object, stretch the tape straight, lock it if needed, and read the measurement. If the edge falls between two marks, round up to avoid cutting too short

This method helps you accurately read both imperial and metric tape measures for various projects around the house or work