Why Unit Conversion Trips People Up
Unit conversion is one of those things that seems simple until you actually need to do it. Is it multiply or divide? Do you add 32 before or after multiplying by 1.8? These small details cause big errors in cooking, travel, science, and engineering.
Temperature Conversions
The most commonly needed conversion. Here's the definitive guide:
// Celsius to Fahrenheit
const fahrenheit = (celsius * 9/5) + 32;
// Fahrenheit to Celsius
const celsius = (fahrenheit - 32) * 5/9;
// Quick mental math trick:
// Double Celsius, add 30 = approximate Fahrenheit
// 20°C ? 40 + 30 = ~70°F (actual: 68°F)Length Conversions
The metric system is logical. The imperial system is historical. Here are the conversions you'll use most:
- 1 inch = 2.54 cm
- 1 foot = 30.48 cm
- 1 mile = 1.609 km
- 1 km = 0.621 miles
Weight Conversions
- 1 pound = 0.4536 kg
- 1 kg = 2.205 pounds
- 1 ounce = 28.35 grams
?? Pro Tip: Don't memorize formulas. Use our Unit Converter tool — it supports 50+ unit types across length, weight, temperature, volume, speed, and more.
