The Common Core Standards are a set of educational guidelines designed to ensure that students in the United States acquire the necessary skills in mathematics and English language arts. Developed in 2010, these standards aim to provide a clear and consistent framework for what students should know at each grade level, promoting critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. These standards are intended to prepare students for success in college and careers by emphasizing real-world applications of knowledge. They are adopted by many states, allowing for a more uniform educational experience across the country, although some states have chosen to develop their own standards instead.