Congruence criteria are rules used in geometry to determine if two triangles are congruent, meaning they have the same shape and size. The most common criteria include Side-Side-Side (SSS), Side-Angle-Side (SAS), Angle-Side-Angle (ASA), and Angle-Angle-Side (AAS). Each criterion provides a specific way to compare the sides and angles of triangles to establish congruence. When two triangles are congruent, all corresponding sides and angles are equal. This concept is essential in various applications, such as proofs in geometry and solving real-world problems involving triangles. Understanding these criteria helps in identifying and working with congruent figures effectively.