Printable Polar Graph Paper
Concentric circles and evenly spaced rays for plotting polar equations, with angle labels in degrees or radians.
Print at “Actual size” or 100% scale so the spacing comes out exactly as set. Everything is made in your browser; nothing is uploaded.
Ready-made Polar graph paper PDFs
Just need one sheet? Download a finished template in Letter or A4.
Polar graph paper 
Polar paper in radians How to make polar graph paper
- Set the circles Choose 5, 8, 10, 12 or 20 concentric circles for the radius scale.
- Set the angle step Rays every 5°, 10°, 15° or 30°; the 0°, 90°, 180° and 270° rays are drawn darker.
- Pick the labels Degrees, radians (π/6, π/4 …) or no labels.
- Print or download Download the PDF or print it at actual size.
Plotting on polar paper
A point in polar coordinates is written (r, θ): r is the distance from the centre (the pole) and θ is the angle measured counterclockwise from the positive x-axis (the ray labelled 0°). To plot (3, 60°), follow the 60° ray outward to the third circle and mark the point. Negative r values are plotted in the opposite direction, on the ray at θ + 180°.
| Equation | Shape |
|---|---|
| r = a | Circle of radius a centred on the pole |
| θ = c | Straight line through the pole |
| r = a·cos θ | Circle passing through the pole |
| r = a(1 + cos θ) | Cardioid (heart shape) |
| r = a·cos(nθ) | Rose curve with n petals (2n if n is even) |
| r = aθ | Archimedean spiral |
Choosing the settings
For pre-calculus homework, 15° rays (every π/12) with 10 circles cover the standard angles of the unit circle: 30°, 45°, 60° and their multiples. Use 5° rays for precise plots of roses and spirals, and 30° rays when students should estimate angles in between. Radian labels match most calculus textbooks.
Polar paper is also handy outside math class: for radar and antenna patterns, wind roses, dartboard and clock-face designs, and circular mandala drawings.
Frequently asked questions
What is polar graph paper used for?
Plotting points and curves in polar coordinates (r, θ) such as circles, cardioids, rose curves and spirals, and for drawing circular designs.
Where is 0° on polar graph paper?
At the right, on the positive x-axis. Angles increase counterclockwise, so 90° is at the top.
Can I label the angles in radians?
Yes. Choose Radians under Angle labels to show values like π/6, π/4 and π/2.
How many circles should polar paper have?
10 or 12 circles is typical for homework. Choose 20 for finer radius readings.
Can I print polar paper on A4?
Yes. Choose A4 in the generator; the circles and angles stay the same, only the page margins change.
Coordinate plane 
Graph paper 
Semi-log graph paper 
Isometric paper