Design and Technology students are often required to construct geometric shapes. While hexagons and octagons are relatively straightforward to draw, other regular geometric shapes are more complicated. This article contains as single method that can be used to construct any regular polygon, such as pentagons, heptagon, and nonagons.
How to draw a regular n-sided polygon inside a circle
- Draw the circle using the given radius (half the distance across the corners)
- Add the diameter (remember centre lines should be shown as long-dash short-dash)
- Draw a line from the bottom of the diameter at any angle;
- Step along this line n equal divisions using the compass (for example, if drawing a pentagon, step along the line 5 times);
- Rule a line from the last point to the other end of the diameter;
- Use the parallel line technique to divide the diameter in n equal spaces
- Identify the second point on the diameter
- Use your compass to draw an arc from either end of the diameter
- Draw a line from the intersection point, through point 2, until it hits the circumference of the circle. This tells you the length of one side.
- Step this side length around the circle using the compass to complete the shape.
Amiria has a Bachelor of Architectural Studies, Bachelor of Architecture (First Class Honours) and a Graduate Diploma of Teaching. She is a CIE Accredited Art & Design and Design & Technology Coursework Assessor. Amiria now teaches Art, Design & Technology at ACG Parnell College.