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What is Area? Definition, Area of Shapes Formula

Area is the size of space that a two-dimensional shape occupies. It enables students to know the area covered by a shape and is determined by definite formulas of square, rectangle, circle and triangle among other geometrical shapes. The area of learning is required in solving real life problems and enhancing mathematical skills.
authorImageShivam Singh30 Oct, 2025
Area

Area

In mathematics, area is a basic concept used to measure the space of a two-dimensional shape. In school geometry, as in everyday life, such as painting a wall, laying flooring, or planning a landscape, area can be used to approximate materials, expenses and space use.

Area is expressed in square units such as cm², m², or ft². Knowing what an area is, how to calculate it, and the area of geometric shapes is essential for students to solve both academic and practical problems effectively. Students can learn the meaning of area, step-by-step calculation methods, formulas for common shapes, and the difference between area and perimeter.

Read More: (a + b)³ Formula

What is the Meaning of Area?

In mathematics, area is defined as the area of a two-dimensional object as the sum of all the surface space contained by the sides of a figure. It tells us how much space a shape occupies.

Key Points About Area:

  • Measurement of area is two-dimensional.

  • Measured in square units like cm², m², or ft².

  • Applies to flat shapes like squares, rectangles, circles, triangles, and more.

Understanding the meaning of area helps students relate math concepts to practical situations like flooring, fencing, or gardening.

How to Calculate Area in Maths?

Learning how to calculate area is essential for geometry and real-life problem-solving. The method depends on the shape.

Steps to Calculate Area:

  1. Identify the shape.

  2. Measure required dimensions (length, width, radius, or height).

  3. Apply the correct formula.

  4. Express the result in square units.

Example Formulas:

  • Rectangle: Area = Length × Breadth

  • Circle: Area = π × r²

Understanding these methods ensures students can calculate the area of geometric shapes accurately.

Area of a Square

A square has four equal sides and right angles. The area of a square is calculated by squaring the length of one side.

Formula: Area = Side × Side = s²

Example: If a square has side = 5 cm:

Area = 5 × 5 = 25 cm²

This is one of the simplest area of shapes formulas used in mathematics.

Area of a Rectangle

A rectangle has opposite sides equal and four right angles. Its area of a rectangle is found by multiplying the length and breadth.

Formula: Area = Length × Breadth

Example: Length = 8 cm, Breadth = 3 cm

Area = 8 × 3 = 24 cm²

This formula is widely used in calculating the area of geometric shapes in school and daily applications.

Area of a Circle

A circle is a round shape defined by its radius. The area is calculated using the constant π (pi ≈ 3.1416).

Formula: Area = π × r²

Example: Radius = 7 cm

Area = 3.1416 × 7² 

= 3.1416 × 49 

≈ 153.94 cm²

This formula helps calculate circular spaces like gardens, plates, or circular tracks.

Read More; Area of Semicircle

Area of Geometric Shapes Formula

The table below provides common geometric shapes and their area formulas, helping students calculate areas accurately and efficiently. Using these formulas makes problem-solving easier and strengthens understanding of geometry.

Area of Different Shapes Formula

Shape

Formula

Required Dimensions

Square

Side

Rectangle

l × b

Length, Breadth

Circle

π × r²

Radius

Triangle

1/2 × b × h

Base, Height

Parallelogram

b × h

Base, Height

Trapezium

1/2 × (a+b) × h

Bases a & b, Height

Difference Between Perimeter and Area

It is important to know the distinction between area and perimeter. Area is used to measure the amount of space a shape occupies, and perimeter is used to measure the total distance of the shape. This distinction is important for construction, design, and mathematical problems.

Difference Between Area and Perimeter

Feature

Area

Perimeter

Definition

Space inside a shape

Length around a shape

Units

Square units (cm², m²)

Linear units (cm, m)

Purpose

Measures surface coverage

Measures boundary length

Example

Square: s²

Square: 4s

Also Read: Surface Area of A Cube

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Area FAQs

What is the meaning of area?

Area is the space covered by a two-dimensional shape. It shows how much surface a shape occupies and is measured in square units like cm² or m².

How to calculate area?

To calculate area, use the formula for the specific shape: Length × Breadth for rectangles, π × r² for circles, s² for squares, etc.

What is the area of a square?

The area of a square is calculated by multiplying its side by itself: Area = Side × Side = s².

What is the area of a circle?

The area of a circle is found using the formula Area = π × r², where r is the radius of the circle.

What is the difference between perimeter and area?

Area measures the surface inside a shape, while perimeter measures the total length around its boundary.
Curious Jr By PW

Curious Jr By PW

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