Area From a Grid

Area from a Grid

When a shape is drawn on a grid, you can find its area by counting the space it covers. The grid helps you estimate or calculate the area exactly, depending on how the shape sits on the squares.

1) Count full squares

If the shape covers whole grid squares, count them directly. Each full square represents 1 square unit, unless the grid says otherwise.

2) Combine partial squares

If the shape cuts through squares, look at the parts carefully. Two half-squares make one full square, and other partial pieces can often be paired or combined to make whole squares.

3) Add the total

Add the area from the full squares and the partial squares you combined. Keep the units as square units.

4) Simplify the answer

If your total is a fraction or mixed number, reduce it to simplest form. If it is a whole number, write it clearly with units.

Check your work

A good check is to compare your answer with the size of the shape on the grid. The area should match the number of unit squares covered, including any combined partial squares. Make sure you did not count the same square twice or leave out small pieces.