Today most tap end studs used are in the oilfield, and there are appropriate (API and

other)
standards for their design. The following is taken from the American Machinists' Handbook by
Colvin and Stanley, Seventh Edition (1940). The parameters given in this reference are similar to
the oilfield specs, but not identical.

Dimensions

 D = nominal thread size (O.D.) of stud

 L = overall length of stud
 A = length of thread on tap end = D + 1/8", and is measured from the end of the stud to
the end of the imperfect thread
 S = length of the unthreaded portion or shoulder = D, except when L < 4D + 3/8", in
which case S may be decreased or eliminated entirely so that B > 2D + 1/4".
 B = length of thread on the nut end = L - (A + S) > 2D + 1/4", and is measured from the
end of the stud to the end of the imperfect thread
 C = length of the imperfect threads < 2 1/2 threads

For short studs where S = 0, B can be less than 2D + 1/4", but A > D + 1/8".

If L > 4D + 3/8", B = L - (A + S), or otherwise put, "the balance of the stud not consumed by A,
the tap end threading (A = D + 1/8") and S, the shoulder length (S = D)."

Note the convention of chamfering the tap end and rounding the nut end of the stud.