How it works
Area = base × heightheight is perpendicular to the base
- base
- one side of the parallelogram
- height
- perpendicular distance to the opposite side
- Area
- the space inside, in square units
A parallelogram has the same area as a rectangle with the same base and height, because you can cut a corner and slide it across to form one.
Frequently asked questions
What is the area of a parallelogram with base 6 and height 4?
24 square units.
What is the formula for a parallelogram?
Base times perpendicular height.
Is it the slanted side or the height?
The perpendicular height, measured straight between the two parallel sides, not the slanted edge.
Why is it the same as a rectangle?
Because cutting a triangular corner and moving it turns a parallelogram into a rectangle of the same base and height.