How to Draw Pyramids

Last Updated: May 28, 2021

Pyramids can be difficult to draw for several reasons. For starters, they are 3-dimensional shapes, which require accurate angles to make them look 3 dimensional on the paper. Also, they are more difficult to draw because the inherent angles in a pyramid can mess up the look if you don't do it right. But for this, all you need is a ruler, a pencil, a rubber eraser and a willingness to learn. This wikiHow will teach you how to draw pyramids.

Steps

1
Choose the size of the front of your pyramid, e.g. 5x5cm.
2
At the base of your pyramid draw the 5 centimeter (2.0 in) line. Using your compass, measure from the point to the pencil at 5 centimeter (2.0 in).
3
As shown in Fig.1, put your compass at one end of your baseline. Doing this, draw part of a circle. Repeat with other end of the baseline. Doing this, you should have both lines crossing in the middle. This part is difficult, but don't worry.
4
From the baseline to the cross, connect the two ends together so you end up with a triangle, shown in Fig.2.
5
Rub out the lines you used in part 3.
6
To one side, draw an extension like another side like in Fig.3. Make sure the baseline of that side is above the first baseline you drew.
7
Finished.

Community Q&A

Question

How do I draw a three-dimensional pyramid?

Community Answer

1.) Draw a triangle. 2.) Find it's middle point (connect each corner with the middle of the side it faces). 3.) Draw a straight line up from the middle point. 4.) Connect each corner of the triangle to the top of this line.
Question

How many faces edges and verticals does a square based pyramid have?

Mia Forte

Community Answer

A square based pyramid will have one square face on the bottom and four diagonal faces (one for each side).
Question

Are there any safe alternates to the compass? I have a child who would like to try this.

Community Answer

You don't really need the compass. It's easier by drawing a triangle, a line up from the bottom right corner, and connecting the top corner to the end of that line with another. You could also put a cap eraser over the pointy end of the compass.
Question

How do I draw a rectangular prism?

Community Answer

You can draw a rectangular prism just like drawing a 3-dimensional cube. First draw a rectangle and indicate the middle of the shape with a small but visible dot. Draw another rectangle of the same size using the dot as one of your corners. Connect the four corners of one rectangle with the corresponding corners of the other, and you're done!
Question

How many edges does a square based pyramid have?

Community Answer

A polygon is a closed, flat shape with straight sides. A square pyramid has a square for a base and four triangles for sides. This means it has five vertices, or corners, and eight edges.