Measuring ingredients is an essential step in cooking and baking that ensures recipes turn out correctly. Accurate measurements can be done using various tools, such as measuring cups for liquids and dry ingredients, and measuring spoons for smaller amounts. It's important to use the right tool for the ingredient type, as this affects the final dish. There are two main systems for measuring: the imperial system, commonly used in the United States, and the metric system, used in many other countries. Understanding how to convert between these systems can help when following recipes from different regions, ensuring consistent results.