A yardstick is a measuring tool that is typically three feet long, used to measure length or distance. It is often made of wood, metal, or plastic and features markings that indicate inches and feet. Yardsticks are commonly used in various fields, including construction, sewing, and education, to ensure accurate measurements. In addition to its practical use, the term "yardstick" can also refer to a standard or criterion used for comparison. For example, in business, a yardstick might be used to evaluate performance against industry benchmarks or to assess the effectiveness of a particular strategy.