Using the Surface Area Calculator
Choose the solid and enter its dimensions in one consistent unit. A cylinder or cone includes its base surfaces in the total, which matters when estimating a closed container’s area.
Worked example
Use the example inputs below to reproduce this result. These are the form's starting values, not recommended targets. Changing your inputs updates your result above; this worked example stays fixed for comparison. Results are rounded for display.
Example inputs
- Shape
- Rectangular prism
- Length or radius
- 3
- Width (prism only)
- 4
- Height (prism, cylinder or cone)
- 5
Example result
- Volume
- 60
- Surface area
- 94
Method and assumptions
Use consistent units. Volumes are in cubic units and areas in square units. Cylinder and cone surface areas include their bases.
Match the measurements to the shape
Sketch the shape and label each input before calculating. A radius, diameter, perpendicular height and sloping edge can have similar-looking measurements while playing different roles in a formula. Use one consistent length unit. Area will then be in its square units and volume in its cubic units, rather than the original length unit.
Common question
Does the cylinder result include both circular ends?
Yes. Total cylinder area includes the curved side and two circular ends. It is not the lateral area alone.
Guide updated .