> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.synaps.app/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.synaps.app/drafting/measure-distance-and-area.md).

# Measure distance and area

Check a distance or an area on the canvas with a temporary on-screen ruler — it shows readings as you click and adds nothing permanent to the drawing.

## Measure a distance

1. Open command search with **Cmd/Ctrl+K**, find **Measure**, and choose it.
2. Choose **Distance** in the tool panel.
3. Click two points to read the distance. Click more points to measure each additional segment.

To measure an area, switch to **Area** in the same panel and follow the steps below.

**Watch the steps · 10 seconds**

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Choose two points and read the measured distance.
{% endembed %}

## Measure an area

1. Open **Measure** and choose **Area** in the tool panel.
2. Click at least three points around the region you want to measure.
3. Read the area at the centre of the region.

## What you'll see

Purple guide lines and labels appear as you click. In Distance mode, a length reads at the middle of each segment you draw. In Area mode, a closed region's area reads at its centre. The readings use the drawing's display unit. Nothing is added to the drawing — leaving the tool clears every line and label it drew.

## Tips

* Measure is temporary by design. Use it to check a distance or area as you work, not to record one on the drawing. To place a permanent measurement, use a dimension instead.
* Snapping helps you land each click on existing points.

## Related guides

[Add dimensions and annotations](/drafting/add-dimensions-and-annotations.md).