A regular hexagon looks tricky at first, but every measurement inside it flows from a single side length. This calculator takes the Side length (a) you enter and returns the hexagon’s area and perimeter with one press of the Solve hexagon button. Students use it to check geometry homework, woodworkers use it for hexagonal shelves and cutting boards, and DIYers find it handy for tile patterns, nut and bolt sizing, or planning a six sided garden bed.
The Formula Behind the Area
For any regular hexagon, the area formula is (3 x sqrt(3) / 2) x s^2, where s is the side length and s^2 means the side multiplied by itself. The constant part, 3 x sqrt(3) / 2, works out to about 2.598. The shape also splits into six identical equilateral triangles, and the perimeter is always 6 x s.
Try a side of 10. Squared, that gives 100, and 100 x 2.598 produces an area of about 259.8 square units. The perimeter comes to 6 x 10, or 60 units. Enter Side length (a) = 10 in the calculator and you will see exactly those values returned.
How to Use It Step by Step
Begin at the Solve hexagon by selector and choose the quantity you already measured, which for most projects is the side. Type the number into the Side length (a) field, pick a unit from the Output units menu, and press the Solve hexagon button to get every result in matching units.
Measure along a flat edge rather than corner to corner, and re run the solve whenever you change units so nothing is left converted halfway. Accurate input in means accurate geometry out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the area of a hexagon with side 10?
Using (3 x sqrt(3) / 2) x s^2, a side of 10 gives about 259.8 square units. The perimeter is 6 x 10, which equals 60 units.
How many sides does a regular hexagon have?
Six equal sides and six equal interior angles of 120 degrees each. The shape divides into six equilateral triangles that share the center, which is why one side length defines everything.
Why is the hexagon area constant about 2.598?
Because 3 x sqrt(3) / 2 evaluates to roughly 2.598. Adding six equilateral triangles of side s produces exactly that coefficient in front of s^2.
Can the calculator handle irregular hexagons?
No, the standard formula assumes six equal sides and angles. For irregular shapes, split the outline into triangles and quadrilaterals, compute each area, then add the parts together.
What units can I choose for output?
Common metric and imperial units are available through the Output units menu. A side of 10 centimeters therefore reports an area near 259.8 square centimeters.