In Paper 1 of this symposium Prof. Tolansky reviews the optical methods used in his laboratory for the examination of micro-structures of metal surfaces. The methods described are two-beam interferometry, multiple-beam interferometry, the light-profile microscope, optical shadow casting and the total reflexion contact method. The usefulness and limitation of each method is discussed. Examples of the application of each method are given. In Paper 2 by Dr. Stephens the various types of optical measurement which might be applied to the examination of surfaces are briefly discussed. Consideration is given to the possible use for specific problems of the ultra-violet, the visible, the infra-red and the microwave regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Paper 3 is a brief survey by Dr. Heavens of the type of information which may be obtained by the application of optical methods to the study of the surfaces of materials. Consideration is restricted to the kind of method which is likely to be of use as a non-destructive test.