How to Calculate the Volume of a Box, Cylinder or Sphere
Volume is the space a three-dimensional shape takes up. This guide explains the three most common volume formulas with examples.
What is the Volume Calculator?
Pick a shape and enter the measurements it needs. A box uses length times width times height, a cylinder uses pi times radius squared times height, and a sphere uses four thirds times pi times radius cubed. The tool validates the dimensions for your chosen shape before calculating.
How to use it
- Choose a shape.
- Enter the dimensions that shape needs.
- Calculate to see its volume.
Worked example
A box 3 by 4 by 5 has a volume of 60.
What is the volume of a box 3 by 4 by 5?
Multiply the three sides together: 3 times 4 times 5 is 60. So the box holds 60 cubic units. A cylinder and a sphere use pi instead, because of their curved surfaces.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fill in every box?
No. Only the dimensions for your chosen shape are used, so leave the others blank.
What units is the answer in?
Cubic units matching whatever unit you measured in: centimetres give cubic centimetres, metres give cubic metres, and so on.