Standards of Committee E-4 consist of test methods, practices, and guides developed to ensure proper and uniform testing in the field of metallography. In order for one to properly use and interpret these standards, the terminology used in these standards must be understood.

The terms used in the field of metallography have precise definitions. The terminology and its proper usage must be completely understood in order to adequately communicate in this field. In this respect, this standard is also a general source of terminology relating to the field of metallography facilitating the transfer of information within the field.