This document specifies a method for determining the resistance of a coating to scratches introduced by a usually hand-held loaded stylus.

The test can be carried out using a point stylus (method A) or using a disc stylus (method B).

Both methods are generally applicable and can be used in the field as well as on curved surfaces. Method A can also be applied on small test specimens (minimum dimensions 30 mm × 50 mm).

The test can be carried out as a "pass/fail" test (test requirement I) or as a classification test (test requirement II).