GeometryBeginner8 min read • October 4, 2025
Distance Formula: Calculate Distance Between Two Points
It\'s just the Pythagorean Theorem in disguise.
The Formula
d = √[(x₂−x₁)² + (y₂−y₁)²]
Quick Example
Find the distance between A(2, 3) and B(7, 11).
dx = 5 • dy = 8 → d = √(5² + 8²) = √(25 + 64) = √89 ≈ 9.43
Why It Works
Draw a right triangle from the two points. The differences in x and y are the legs; the distance is the hypotenuse.
Practice It
Pick two random points on graph paper. Use the formula, then measure with a ruler to check.
Related: Pythagorean Theorem →