Skill: Find perimeter by adding side lengths

Perimeter is the total distance around a shape. To find it, add the lengths of all the sides. Write the answer in the same linear units as the side lengths.

Example: A five-sided shape has side lengths of $(6\text{ cm})$, $(4\text{ cm})$, $(3\text{ cm})$, $(5\text{ cm})$, and $(2\text{ cm})$. What is its perimeter?

1. List every side length:

$$6,\ 4,\ 3,\ 5,\ 2$$

2. Add the side lengths:

$$6+4+3+5+2=20$$

3. Include the unit:

$$\boxed{20\text{ cm}}$$

The perimeter of the shape is $(20)$ centimeters. Perimeter measures the distance around a shape, not the space inside it.