What do the terms "SHALL" and "MUST" indicate?

The terms "SHALL" and "MUST" are used in legal and technical documents to indicate mandatory requirements. When a statement uses these terms, it implies that compliance is not optional; there is an obligation to follow the specified action. This usage is often found in regulations, standards, and contractual agreements where clarity and enforceability are essential, ensuring that all involved parties adhere to the defined parameters.

In contrast, terms that suggest advisory actions, optional recommendations, or non-binding suggestions would not impose the same level of obligation and therefore would not be correctly described by "SHALL" or "MUST." This distinction is crucial for understanding compliance and the expectations set forth in various professional and legal contexts.