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How to Get the Perimeter the Easy Way

Calculating perimeters is a fundamental part of mathematics, especially in geometry. Knowing how to perform the calculation is crucial in such fields as architecture, graphic design, engineering and military science. The perimeter of a shape is the distance around its outer side. You can calculate it using either of two methods, depending on the type of shape. Regular polygons have sides that are all the same length. Irregular polygons may have multiple sides that are all different lengths.

Instructions

  1. Regular Polygon Method

    • 1

      Count the number of sides of the regular polygon. For example, if the shape is a triangle, you will count three sides. If the shape is an octagon, you will count eight sides.

    • 2

      Measure the length of one side. Record your measurement.

    • 3

      Multiply the number of sides by the length of one side. For example, if the length of a side is 3 inches and there are three sides, the perimeter is 9 inches.

    Irregular Polygon Method

    • 4

      Measure each side of the irregular polygon. Depending on the shape, irregular polygons may have two or more equal sides but they will always have at least one side that is not equal to the others.

    • 5

      Record your measurements.

    • 6

      Add each of the lengths together. For example, if a triangle's sides were 3 inches, 4 inches and 8 inches long, add 3 + 4 + 8. The perimeter is 15 inches.

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