The external granular layer of the cerebral cortex is commonly known as layer II. It should not be confused with the [[internal granular layer]] of the cerebral cortex (commonly known as layer IV).

Layer II is often lumped together with layer III and their union is referred to as layer II/III or layer 2/3.

Layers I, II, and III are together referred to as the supragranular layers, because they are above layer IV.