Enter the scale ratio and dimension on the plan or map into the calculator to determine the actual size in inches. This calculator can also evaluate any of the variables given the others are known.

Scale To Inches Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the scale to inches conversion.

I = S * D

Variables:

  • I is the actual size in inches
  • S is the scale ratio (e.g., 1:12 would be 1/12 or 0.0833)
  • D is the dimension on the plan or map in inches

To calculate the actual size in inches, multiply the scale ratio by the dimension on the plan or map. For example, if the scale is 1:12 (or 0.0833) and the dimension on the plan is 2 inches, the actual size would be 0.0833 * 2 = 0.1666 inches in real life.

What is Scale To Inches?

Scale to inches is a conversion method used in various fields such as engineering, architecture, and map making, where a specific scale is used to represent a larger area or object. It is a ratio that defines the relationship between the dimensions drawn on a plan or map and the actual dimensions of the object in real life. For example, a scale of 1:12 means that every inch on the plan or map represents 12 inches in real life. This allows for accurate representation and measurements of large areas or objects on a smaller, more manageable scale.

How to Calculate Scale To Inches?

The following steps outline how to calculate the Scale To Inches.


  1. First, determine the scale ratio (S).
  2. Next, determine the dimension on the plan or map in inches (D).
  3. Next, gather the formula from above = I = S * D.
  4. Finally, calculate the actual size in inches (I).
  5. After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.

Example Problem : 

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.

scale ratio (S) = 1:100

dimension on the plan or map in inches (D) = 5