Convert inches to feet in seconds.
1 in ÷ 12 = 0.083 ft
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Ever tried measuring a new TV screen or calculating the height of a ceiling? Inches and feet are everywhere in daily life, especially in countries like the U.S. where imperial units still rule. But switching between these units can feel like translating between two languages. Don’t worry—converting inches to feet is no rocket science. By the end of this guide, you’ll be flipping between these units faster than a carpenter’s tape measure.
Unit definitions
What is an inch (in)?
The inch, abbreviated as "in," is one of the smaller units in the imperial system. Originally based on the width of a human thumb, it’s now standardized to exactly 25.4 millimeters. You’ll see inches used for screen sizes, screws, and smaller DIY projects. Fun fact: The word "inch" comes from the Latin "uncia," meaning "one-twelfth," which hints at its relationship with the foot.
What is a foot (ft)?
A foot (abbreviated "ft") equals 12 inches. Historically, it was based on the average length of a human foot, but today, it’s defined as 0.3048 meters. Feet are ideal for measuring room dimensions, human height, or lumber. If you’ve ever heard someone say they’re "six feet tall," they’re using this unit.
Conversion formula
To convert inches to feet, use this simple formula:
Feet = Inches ÷ 12
For example, 24 inches becomes 24 ÷ 12 = 2 feet. To go the other way, multiply feet by 12:
Inches = Feet × 12
Example calculations
- Converting 36 inches to feet:
36 ÷ 12 = 3 feet
(That’s the height of many kitchen countertops!) - Converting 5.5 feet to inches:
5.5 × 12 = 66 inches
(Perfect for figuring out how tall your Christmas tree should be.)
Conversion tables
Inches to feet
| Inches | Feet |
|---|---|
| 1 | 0.0833 |
| 6 | 0.5 |
| 12 | 1 |
| 24 | 2 |
| 36 | 3 |
| 48 | 4 |
| 60 | 5 |
| 72 | 6 |
| 84 | 7 |
| 96 | 8 |
Feet to inches
| Feet | Inches |
|---|---|
| 1 | 12 |
| 2 | 24 |
| 3 | 36 |
| 4 | 48 |
| 5 | 60 |
| 6 | 72 |
| 7 | 84 |
| 8 | 96 |
| 9 | 108 |
| 10 | 120 |
Historical background
The foot has been used since ancient times—the Romans divided it into 12 unciae (inches). But here’s the twist: A "foot" wasn’t always the same length. Medieval Europe had regional variations until standardization in teh 19th century. (Whoops, see that typo? Even historians make mistakes!) The modern international foot was finally agreed upon in 1959, ending centuries of confusion.
Interesting facts
- Big feet: The largest foot measurement ever recorded was 18.5 inches—size 22 shoes!
- Aviation quirk: Altitudes are measured in feet worldwide, even in metric countries.
- Moon measurements: NASA uses feet for lunar distance calculations.
- 12-based system: The 12-inch foot makes dividing into halves, thirds, and quarters easier than base-10.
- Henry I’s arm: The yard (3 feet) was supposedly based on the distance from King Henry I’s nose to his thumb.
FAQ
The 12-inch foot dates back to ancient civilizations, including the Romans, who divided measurements into 12 parts for easier division by 3, 4, or 6.
Divide the number of inches by 12. For example, 36 inches ÷ 12 = 3 feet.
Yes, since 1959, both countries use the international foot defined as exactly 0.3048 meters.
Use inches for smaller measurements (e.g., screen sizes) and feet for larger ones (e.g., room dimensions).
Absolutely! Just divide decimal inches by 12. For example, 18.5 inches = 1.5417 feet.