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Golden Ratio Calculator

Apply the golden ratio (1.618) to any measurement for design, art, photography and architecture.

Golden ratio

Enter one side length. Results update live.

Golden ratio pair
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Enter a length to apply the golden ratio.

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What the golden ratio is

The golden ratio, phi, is about 1.618, and a golden rectangle has sides in that proportion. If the short side is a, the long side is a times 1.618. Designers use it because the proportion appears balanced and pleasing across art, architecture and nature.

Using it in both directions

From a short side you multiply by 1.618 to get the long side; from a long side you divide by 1.618 to get the short side. The calculator handles both directions and also shows the total length, handy for layout work.

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Golden Ratio Calc FAQs

What is the golden ratio number?
Approximately 1.6180339887, usually rounded to 1.618. It is the positive solution to x squared equals x plus 1.
How do I use the golden ratio in design?
Divide a layout into sections with a 1 to 1.618 ratio, for example a 1000 pixel content column with a 618 pixel sidebar. Use it for spacing, type sizes and image crops.
What is a golden rectangle?
A rectangle whose sides are in golden ratio proportion. Cutting a square off one end leaves a smaller golden rectangle, a property used in spirals and logos.
Is the golden ratio really in nature?
Similar proportions appear in some shells, flowers and galaxies, though many claims are exaggerated. In design it is simply a useful, time tested proportion.
Can I use it for photography composition?
Yes, the phi grid places focal points at golden ratio divisions instead of thirds, giving a slightly different and often more dynamic composition than the rule of thirds.
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