The Snare Rudiments were designed to improve the dynamics and control of the drums. They consist of short patterns that are divided in different categories (Rolls, Diddles, Flams, Drags), with different complexities. The first written rudiments can be traced back to 1612 in Switzerland. However, the first standardized list was made by The National Association of Rudimental Drummers, with an original 26 exercises. Later in 1984 the other and last 14 were added, creating the 40 essential rudiment list.