How to Draw a Parabolic Curve (a Curve with Straight Lines)

A parabolic curve is a two-dimensional drawing that seems to make a curve. It is very easy to do, and once you master it, the possibilities are endless!

Method 1

Method 1 of 4:

Drawing a Simple Curve with Graph Paper

Download Article

When you are learning, it is best to use graph paper. If you don't have any graph paper, continue on to method 2.
Put the paper so the long end is on the bottom/top and the short ends on the side. If you are using square graph paper, you can skip this step.
Advertisement
Using a ruler, draw a line from the top left square to the right of the bottom left cube. Make sure the line is straight.^{[1]XResearch source}
^{[2]XResearch source}
Make sure you don't connect the wrong end to wrong end, as it is hard to erase.^{[3]XResearch source}

Method 2

Method 2 of 4:

Drawing a Simple Parabolic Curve without Graph Paper

Download Article

Draw a right angle. The taller you make it, the smoother your Parabolic Curve will be.^{[4]XResearch source}
on both sides of the angle. Make sure they are evenly spaced and equal on both sides.
Make sure the line is straight. Repeat with the next notch^{[5]XResearch source}
^{[6]XResearch source}
Make sure you don't connect the wrong end to wrong end, as it is hard to erase.

Method 3

Method 3 of 4:

Draw a Circle Parabolic Curve

Download Article

Draw a circle.^{[7]XResearch source}Use a compass, as it is essential that it is a good circle.
Notch them in equal distance from each other.
Continue as needed.

Method 4

Method 4 of 4:

Other ways to draw a Parabolic Curve

Download Article

This is a really cool doodle that isn't too hard. Simply draw the cube first, then use the angles of the cube to make the curves.
Make it using yarn or string. This is even cooler than doing it on paper!
This makes the curve narrower or wider.
This makes a three-sided star.

Community Q&A

Search

Add New Question

Question
How do I change my layout from square to round?
Community Answer
Use a compass to draw a circle, as shown in the example. This can be done on any type of paper.
Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If How.com.vn has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission.Support How.com.vn
Yes No
Not Helpful 8 Helpful 15
Question
How do I make a parabolic curve without a ruler?
Community Answer
Use the edge of a piece of paper or anything straight, or go freehand. Visually guess the distances if you don't have graph paper.
Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If How.com.vn has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission.Support How.com.vn
Yes No
Not Helpful 16 Helpful 15
Question
How do I draw the center of a parabola?
Community Answer
Technically the center of a parabola is undefined since a parabola exists infinitely.
Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If How.com.vn has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission.Support How.com.vn
Yes No
Not Helpful 27 Helpful 9