How to use graph paper
Graph paper is a sheet covered in a grid of evenly spaced lines. Every square is the same size, so you can measure distance by counting squares, keep drawings in proportion and line up numbers in columns without a ruler. This guide shows how to use it for the most common jobs, and which grid to pick for each.
Pick the right grid first
| What you are doing | Grid to use |
|---|---|
| Maths homework, simple graphs and charts | 1 cm graph paper or 1/4 inch graph paper |
| Plotting equations with negative numbers | Coordinate plane graph paper |
| Small, detailed drawings and diagrams | 5 mm graph paper |
| Larger squares for younger students, maps or games | 1 inch graph paper |
| 3D shapes and technical sketches | Isometric graph paper |
| Notes, lettering and bullet journals | Dot grid paper |
| Data that grows by multiples | Semi-log graph paper |
| Charting a design stitch by stitch | Cross stitch or knitting graph paper |
If you are not sure, start with the graph paper generator and 1/4 inch or 1 cm squares.
How to plot a graph step by step
- Draw the axes. Use a ruler and pencil. The horizontal line is the x-axis, the vertical line is the y-axis, and they cross at the origin, (0, 0). On coordinate plane paper they are already drawn and numbered.
- Choose a scale. Look at your largest and smallest values and decide what one square, or one block of squares, stands for. If your values run from 0 to 90 and the grid is 18 squares wide, let every square be 5. Pick a scale that fills most of the page and is easy to count: 1, 2, 5 or 10 per square, not 3 or 7.
- Label the axes. Write the quantity and its unit at the end of each axis, and number the lines at regular intervals.
- Plot each point. For (3, −2), start at the origin, move 3 to the right, then 2 down, and mark a small cross or dot.
- Join the points. Use a ruler for straight lines, or draw a smooth curve through the points for curves. Do not simply connect the dots in zigzags unless the data really jumps.
- Add a title. Say what the graph shows.
Drawing to scale
Choose a scale such as 1 square = 1 cm or 1 square = 10 cm, write it on the page, and then draw every length by counting squares. A room that is 4 m wide is 40 squares at 1 square = 10 cm, so you can see straight away whether it fits on the sheet. The same method works for floor plans, garden layouts and simple maps.
Other uses
- Tables and columns: write one digit per square so numbers line up when you add or subtract by hand.
- Pixel art and mosaics: colour in squares to build up a picture.
- Patterns for craft: chart a stitch pattern before you start. Knitters should use knitting graph paper, because stitches are not square.
- Tiling and symmetry: draw a shape once, then repeat it by counting squares.
Tips that help
- Use a sharp pencil, so you can correct points without a mess.
- Print a lighter line colour, such as grey or blue, so your pencil work stands out.
- Choose a Darker line every 5 or 10 squares to make counting large areas quicker.
- Print at 100% / Actual size. If the printer shrinks the page, a 1 cm square will not measure 1 cm. See how to print graph paper at actual size.
Frequently asked questions
What is graph paper used for?
Plotting graphs, drawing to scale, laying out tables, designing patterns and sketching. Most people use it for maths, science and design.
What size graph paper should I use?
For school graphs, 1 cm or 1/4 inch squares. For detailed work, 5 mm. For younger students or large displays, 1 inch.
How do I make graph paper?
Use the free graph paper generator: choose the square size, paper size and colour, then print it or download a PDF.