Whether you’re drilling holes in a flower pot or dabbling in carpentry, finding the exact center of a circle can seem like a challenge, especially if it’s been a while since you’ve taken a geometry class. However, with some patience and the right tools, you can determine the center of a circle quickly and accurately. 

    Here’s our easy solution for finding the center of a circle that will work with any project or material.



    How to Find the Center

    To find the center of a circle,  you need a 90-degree angle and a straight edge. A framer’s square has both, but you can improvise with a piece of cardboard, paper, or whatever you have on hand, as long as the corners are 90 degrees.

    Lay the square on top of the circle, with the right angle touching the edge. Don’t worry about positioning — the beauty of the method is that it doesn’t matter.

    Mark the circle where the sides of the square cross the edge of the circle. These marks will create a diameter of the circle.

    Draw a line connecting the two marks using a straight edge (one side of the square works well). This line will bisect the circle.

    Reposition the square so the right angle touches the edge in another spot, and repeat steps one through three. The goal is to create a second diameter line intersecting the first at a 90-degree angle.

    Now, you have an “X” marking the center of your circle. The intersection of the two diameter lines identifies the precise center point. 


    Tips for Finding the Circle Center

    Here are our top pointers to locate circle centers:

    • Use an engineer’s square if possible. The 90 degrees bisects the circle. Triangle points provide flexibility in positioning.
    • Mark intersection points clearly with a pencil. Use a fine-point Sharpie for a prominent mark once you identify the center.  
    • Take your time when drawing diameter lines to ensure they are straight and intersect at 90 degrees. 
    • Use a yardstick as the straight edge for large circles like wagon wheels. This tool draws long and straight diameter lines.
    • Double-check your work. Reposition the square and repeat to verify the true center of the circle.

    Uses for Finding Circle Centers

    Many projects require finding circle centers. Here are some of the most common projects we’ve seen this skill come in handy for: 

    Drill pilot holes, attach hardware or handles, and create perfect circles for wood discs and rings.

    Find fabric circle middles to make clothes, quilts, wreaths, and other homemade items.

    Locate the center point on equipment wheels, gears, and parts to center drill bits and make repairs.

    Mark circular saw blade centers, drill ceramic tile, find drywall stud centers, and space lights evenly.

    Perform geometry calculations, develop plans, and model math concepts like pi.

    The precise midpoint is critical for accuracy and quality for any circle-involved project or discipline. Our easy method helps you always find the center point.


    So, Is Finding the Circle Center Really That Simple?

    Locating a circle’s center point requires basic geometry knowledge and a couple of handy tools. While it may seem daunting initially, the technique we’ve outlined here is simple and accessible to anyone. The keys are taking your time, marking carefully, and plotting two intersecting diameters with right angle bisection. 

    In our experience, patience and precision matter more than complex math. With practice, you can find circle centers consistently with ease. Don’t be intimidated — try this easy method on your next project. Following the step-by-step instructions makes finding the midpoint no challenge.


    FAQs About Finding the Center of a Circle

    How do I find the center without a square?

    Instead of a square, grab a ruler, straight edge, or protractor to plot diameter lines at precise 90-degree angles. Then, draw a straight line through the circle and draw a second straight line perpendicular to the first crossing the circle. The intersection of the two lines is the center of the circle.


    What is the easiest way to find the center?

    The angle bisection method with a square or right angle outlined here is the most straightforward. It requires minimal tools and basic geometry knowledge.


    How do you find the center of a graphed circle?

    If the circle is graphed on a coordinate plane, the center point is where the perpendicular diameter lines intersect. Plot the lines based on circle points, then find where they cross.


    How do you find the radius if the center is known?

    Measure the distance from the known center point to any spot on the circle’s edge. That distance is the radius. Double it to get the diameter.


    How do I find the center with a compass?

    Take your compass and open it to any width. Place the pointy end of the compass in the circle’s center and draw an arc within the circle. Then, draw a second intersecting arc by picking a different width on the compass. The arcs’ intersection point is the circle center.


    Editorial Contributors
    avatar for Amy DeYoung

    Amy DeYoung

    Contributor

    Amy DeYoung has a passion for educating and motivating homeowners to improve their lives through home improvement projects and preventative measures. She is a content writer and editor specializing in pest control, moving, window, and lawn/gardening content for Today’s Homeowner. Amy utilizes her own experience within the pest control and real estate industry to educate readers. She studied business, communications, and writing at Arizona State University.

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    Lee Ann Merrill

    Chicago-based Lee Ann Merrill has decades of experience writing and editing across a wide range of technical and scientific subjects. Her love of DIY, gardening, and making led her to the realm of creating and honing quality content for homeowners. When she's not working on her craft, you can find her exploring her city by bike and plotting international adventures.

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