How to Calculate Volume of a Rectangular Prism

A rectangular prism or solid is three-dimensional, and its volume is easy to calculate. You measure the volume of a rectangular solid in cubic units of measurement. Figure out the volume of a rectangular prism by following these few short and simple steps.

Things You'll Need

• Rectangular prism
• Calculator (if needed)

Instructions

1. Find the length of the prism.

2. Find the width of the prism.

3. Find the height of the prism.

4. Multiply the 3 dimensions together. It does not matter the order in which you multiply the numbers.

5. Write your answer in the proper cubic unit of measurement.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you use the same unit of measurement for each dimension.

• If you have the volume of the prism and need to find a missing dimension, work the problem backwards. Take the volume and divide it by each dimension given until you have the missing dimension.

• Break down complicated shapes into smaller parts. Determine the volume of smaller parts, and then combine them (by adding) into the volume of the entire shape.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish