How To Get Decimal Degrees Calculator

Converting degrees, minutes, seconds (DMS) to decimal degrees is crucial in GPS systems, mapping, and navigation. Our calculator simplifies this process.

1. Enter the degree, minute, and second values.
2. Click ‘Calculate’.
3. See the result and chart below.

The formula to convert DMS to decimal degrees is: Degrees + (Minutes / 60) + (Seconds / 3600).

1. Example 1: 40° 42′ 51″ becomes 40.714167°
2. Example 2: 74° 0′ 21″ becomes 74.005833°
3. Example 3: 34° 4′ 38″ becomes 34.071667°

Comparison of DMS and Decimal Degrees

DMS	Decimal Degrees
40° 42′ 51″	40.714167°
74° 0′ 21″	74.005833°
34° 4′ 38″	34.071667°

Error Analysis: DMS vs Decimal Degrees

DMS	Decimal Degrees	Error
40° 42′ 51″	40.714167°	0.000000°
74° 0′ 21″	74.005833°	0.000000°
34° 4′ 38″	34.071667°	0.000000°

• Always double-check your calculations.
• Use tools like this calculator for precise results.
• Understand the context: DMS is often used in historical or cultural contexts.

What are decimal degrees?

Decimal degrees is a way of expressing angles using decimal numbers, where 1 degree is equal to 1/360 of a circle.

Why use decimal degrees?

Decimal degrees are more precise and easier to work with in mathematical calculations and digital systems like GPS.

USGS: Latitude and Longitude

NASA: How Longitude Works