An area calculator is a valuable tool for determining the size of a specific area, whether you are planning a landscaping project, assessing property boundaries, or conducting geographical studies. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use various types of area calculators available online and through mobile apps.
Using an Online Area Calculator
Step 1: Access the Calculator
To start, navigate to an online area calculator tool such as the one provided by Modern Turf or Free Map Tools. These tools typically use a map interface to help you measure the area[1][4].
Step 2: Locate Your Area
Enter the address of the area you want to measure into the search bar. If the address does not appear, you can use a nearby known address and navigate to your desired location manually[1].
Alternatively, if you are using the calculator on a device with location services enabled, you can click on the device location button to navigate the map to your current location[1].
Step 3: Define the Area
Zoom and pan the map to find the exact area you want to measure.
Click on the map to place vertices for the polyline that will define your area. Continue clicking around the perimeter of the area until it is fully enclosed[1][4].
Step 4: Adjust and Finalize
If you make a mistake, you can click the “Delete Last Point” button to remove the last placed marker or “Clear All” points to start over.
Once you have defined the area, the calculator will display the total area enclosed by the polyline in units such as square meters or square kilometers[1][4].
Using a Mobile App Area Calculator
Step 1: Download and Open the App
Download an area calculator app such as Geo Measure Area Calculator from the app store. Open the app and navigate to the main screen[2].
Step 2: Select Measurement Type
Tap on the PLUS icon at the bottom right of the screen to find options such as Distance, Area, and POI (Points of Interest).
Choose the “Area” option and then select the measurement method: Manual Measurement, GPS Measurement, or Free Hand Measurement[2].
Step 3: Place Markers
For Manual Measurement, tap on the map to place markers around the area you want to measure. This will create a polyline that defines your area.
You can change the measurement unit by using a simple checkbox on the last screen[2].
Step 4: Review and Export
Once you have placed all the markers, the app will calculate and display the area.
You can export the measurement data as a KML file and share it with others if needed[2].
Additional Tips
Best Practices for Mapping
When placing markers, it is best to circle the property in a clockwise or counterclockwise motion from your first pin and work from the top of the map to the bottom, especially if you are mapping multiple areas[1].
Remote Sensing and GIS Projects
For more complex projects involving remote sensing or GIS, it is crucial to define the boundary of your area of interest (AOI) precisely. This helps in managing costs and ensuring the right level of detail and resolution for your project[3].
Most Important Facts About Area Calculators
Ease of Use: Area calculators are generally user-friendly, allowing you to measure areas by placing markers on a map interface, whether online or through a mobile app[1][2][4].
Accuracy: These tools provide accurate measurements in various units such as square meters or square kilometers[1][4].
Flexibility: You can choose different measurement methods, such as manual, GPS, or freehand, depending on the app or tool you are using[2].
Export Options: Many area calculators allow you to export the measurement data in formats like KML, which can be shared or used in other applications[2][4].
Adjustability: You can easily adjust or remove markers if mistakes are made during the measurement process[1][4].
Practical Applications: Area calculators are useful for a wide range of tasks, from landscaping and property assessment to remote sensing and GIS projects[1][2][3].
By following these steps and tips, you can effectively use an area calculator to measure and manage areas with precision and ease.
