Test Method A is used for determining the apparent viscosity at a given rotational speed, although viscosities at two or more speeds give better characterization of a non-Newtonian material than does a single viscosity measurement.

With Test Methods B and C, the extent of shear thinning is indicated by the drop in viscosity with increasing viscometer speed. The degree of thixotropy is indicated by comparison of viscosities at increasing and decreasing viscometer speeds (Test Method B), viscosity recovery (Test Method B), or viscosities before and after high shear (combination of Test Methods B and C). The high-shear treatment in Test Method C approximates shearing during paint application. The viscosity behavior measured after high shear is indicative of the characteristics of the paint soon after application.