Decimal degrees vs. DMS coordinates
Geographic coordinates (latitude and longitude) can be expressed either as decimal degrees (DD), such as 40.7484, or as degrees, minutes, and seconds (DMS), such as 40°44’54.24". Both describe the same location; they’re just different notations.
To convert DMS to decimal degrees, the formula is: DD = degrees + (minutes ÷ 60) + (seconds ÷ 3600). To go the other way, the whole-number part becomes degrees, the fractional part times 60 becomes minutes, and the fractional part of that times 60 becomes seconds.
This calculator is intended for general mapping, navigation, and educational reference. For precise surveying or navigation, always verify coordinates against an authoritative GPS or GIS source.
Last reviewed August 2026