Metadata standards are guidelines for describing data in a consistent and organized manner. They provide a framework for data storage and retrieval, ensuring that information is easily accessible and understandable across different platforms and systems. Metadata standards are essential for data management, data sharing, and data interoperability. Some common metadata standards include Dublin Core, METS (Metadata Encoding and Transmission Standard), MODS (Metadata Object Description Schema), and PREMIS (Preservation Metadata: Implementation Strategies). These standards help define essential elements such as title, creator, date, and format of data, enabling users to search, retrieve, and interpret data effectively.