READING A RULER

English Ruler:

Each inch is divided into 16 parts.  The smallest division is 1/16 of an inch.

Notice the lines are different lengths.

•   The longest lines are the inch marks.
•   The next shorter lines are the 1/2″ marks.  They divide each inch into halves.
•   The next shorter lines are the 1/4″ marks.  They divide each inch into quarters.
•   The next shorter lines are the 1/8″ marks.  They divide each inch into eighths.
•   The shortest lines are the 1/16″ marks.  They divide each inch into sixteenths.

Making a Measurement:

1. Align the left end of the ruler with one edge of the part you are measuring.
2. Count the number of whole inches (if there are any.)
3. Count the remaining number of divisions (if there are any) and add them to the number of whole inches.

Example:  Measure the width of the gray object.

1. Ruler is aligned properly.
2. 1 whole inch.
3. Plus 3/8 = 1 3/8″.