Enter the map scale (1:X) and the measured distance into the Actual Distance Calculator. The calculator will evaluate and display the Actual Distance. 

Actual Distance Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the Actual Distance. 

AD = MD / (1/X)
  • Where AD is the Actual Distance
  • X is the map scale (1:X) 
  • MD is the measured distance 

To calculate the actual distance, divide the map scale by the measured distance.

How to Calculate Actual Distance?

The following example problems outline how to calculate Actual Distance.

Example Problem #1:

  1. First, determine the map scale (1:X).
    • The map scale (1:X) is given as: 50,000.
  2. Next, determine the measured distance.
    • The measured distance is provided as: 3.
  3. Finally, calculate the Actual Distance using the equation above: 

AD = MD / (1/X)

The values given above are inserted into the equation below and the solution is calculated:

AD = 3 / (1/50,000) = 150,000

Example Problem #2: 

For this problem, the variables needed are provided below:

map scale (1:X) = 2,500

measured distance = 10

This example problem is a test of your knowledge on the subject. Use the calculator above to check your answer. 

AD = MD / (1/X) = ?