We recently introduced a series of papers describing how to do certain techniques. This article is the first part of a review of shear wave elastography (SWE). It reports the principles and interpretation of the technique and describes how to optimize it. Normal values, pitfalls and artefacts for the examination of liver, breast. thyroid and salivary gland with shear wave elastography are presented. The manuscript provides specific tips for applying SWE as part of a diagnostic US examination.