"3 cups" refers to a measurement commonly used in cooking and baking. It indicates the volume of an ingredient, such as flour, sugar, or liquid. In the United States, one cup is equivalent to approximately 240 milliliters, so three cups would be about 720 milliliters. In recipes, measuring ingredients accurately is crucial for achieving the desired taste and texture. Using a standard measuring cup ensures consistency. For example, when making a cake, adding 3 cups of flour can significantly affect the final product's structure and flavor.