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Perimeter of a parallelogram
Definition: The total distance around the outside of a parallelogram
Try this Drag any orange dot to resize the parallelogram. The perimeter is calculated as you drag. Drag point D to change the base length.

How to find the perimeter of a parallelogram

Like any polygon, the perimeter is the total distance around the outside, which can be found by adding together the length of each side. In the case of a parallelogram, each pair of opposite sides is the same length, so the perimeter is twice the base plus twice the side length. Or as a formula:

perimeter = 2(w+h) where:
w is the base length of the parallelogram
h is the side length

In the figure above, drag any orange dot to resize the parallelogram. From the side lengths shown, calculate the perimeter and verify your result matches the formula at the top of the diagram.

Related polygon topics

General

Types of polygon

Area of various polygon types

Perimeter of various polygon types

Angles associated with polygons

Named polygons

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