Trapezoid Formulas
2D Shapes
Trapezoid
- Area
- A = ½ (a + b) × h
- Median
- m = ½ (a + b)
- a top parallel side
- b bottom parallel side
- h height
Trapezoid formulas explained
A trapezoid (trapezium) has one pair of parallel sides. Its area is the average of the parallel sides times the height. Below are all the trapezoid formulas with what each letter means, a worked example and a free calculator.
- Area:
A = ½ (a + b) × h - Median:
m = ½ (a + b)
Trapezoid calculator
Live calculator
Trapezoid calculator
Worked example: area of a trapezoid
Given Top side a = 6 cm, Bottom side b = 10 cm, Height h = 4 cm, substitute the values into each trapezoid formula:
- A = ½ × (6 + 10) × 4 = 32 cm²
- m = ½ × (6 + 10) = 8 cm
Trapezoid Formula SheetFormulas, variables, a worked example and practice questions with answers.Download PDFOpen
Trapezoid formulas FAQ
What is the formula for the area of a trapezoid?
The area of a trapezoid is A = ½ (a + b) × h, where a is the top parallel side, b is the bottom parallel side, h is the height.
What is the formula for the median of a trapezoid?
The median of a trapezoid is m = ½ (a + b), where a is the top parallel side, b is the bottom parallel side.
Can I download the trapezoid formulas as a PDF?
Yes. Use the Download PDF button on this page for a free printable trapezoid formula sheet with a worked example and practice questions.
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