Measure distance and area

When using a map, you can measure a linear distance or an area and its perimeter using the Measure tool. This ArcGIS for Excel tool calculates the shortest measurement (using the ellipsoid-based geodesic calculation) even if the data uses a projected coordinate system. You can also change the units of measure while performing a measurement.

Note:

You must sign in to ArcGIS to access the analysis tools.

Make a measurement

To measure distance or area, do the following:

1. From the map tools, click Analysis .

   The analysis tools appear. The Measure tool is selected by default.

2. Choose a measurement option:
   • Measure distance —Measure a linear distance. Click the map where you want to start the measurement, and click once for every vertex of the line you want to measure. Double-click to complete the line.
   • Measure area —Measure an area and its perimeter. Click the map where you want to start the measurement, and click once for every vertex of the area you want to measure. Double-click to complete the area.

   The results appear at the bottom of the Measure pane and on the map.

3. Optionally, turn the Show label toggle button on or off.

   This shows and removes distance and area information from the map.

4. Optionally, do any of the following:
   • From the Unit drop-down menu, select a different unit of measure. The measurement results are converted to the newly selected unit.
   • Click Clear measurement to clear and start another measurement.

     Note:

     The measurement is also cleared when you switch between the distance and area buttons or click any other tool.

Move the map while measuring

If the distance or area to be measured is not completely contained within the current extent of the map—for example, a street or parcel extends beyond what is visible—pan the map as you are measuring while maintaining the cumulative total distance or area. To do this, drag the map in the desired direction and double-click to complete the measurement.